OSTEOPOROSIS RISK-FACTORS IN 8TH GRADE STUDENTS

This study described the incidence of osteoporosis risk factors and co mpared gender differences in Midwestern eighth grade students. Non-mod ifiable risk factors were gender, ethnic heritage, and family history. Modifiable risk factors were calcium intake, physical activity, sodiu m intake, body mass index (BMI) smoking-status, and alcohol intake. On e hundred thirty-eight student/ parent pairs were sampled. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analyses were conducted. The mean student r isk factor total was 4.1 for non-modifiable and modifiable (1.9 and 2. 3, respectively). Significantly more males had adequate calcium intake s excessive sodium intakes, and low BMI values. Adolescents with sever al non-modifiable risk factors in combination with a number of modifia ble risk factors may have increased risk for developing osteoporosis b y compromising their peak bone mass Further research should use DEXA a nalysis for bone density levels to determine if risk factor totals coi ncided with bone density levels.