Osteoporosis risk factors in eighth grade students

Abstract

This study described the incidence of osteoporosis risk factors and compared gender differences in Midwestern eighth grade students. Non-modifiable risk factors were gender, ethnic heritage, and family history. Modifiable risk factors were calcium intake, physical activity, sodium intake, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, and alcohol intake. One hundred thirty-eight student/ parent pairs were sampled. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analyses were conducted. The mean student risk factor total was 4.1 for non-modifiable and modifiable (1.9 and 2.3, respectively). Significantly more males had adequate calcium intakes, excessive sodium intakes, and low BMI values. Adolescents with several non-modifiable risk factors in combination with a number of modifiable risk factors may have increased risk for developing osteoporosis by compromising their peak bone mass. Further research should use DEXA analysis for bone density levels to determine if risk factor totals coincided with bone density levels.