University of Otago, New Zealand, Conducts 50-Year Longitudinal Study on 1,000 Participants
Childhood Fracture Experience Doubles Adult Fracture Risk or More ↑
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] A study has found that people who experienced fractures in childhood have a higher risk of breaking bones again or developing osteoporosis in adulthood.
On the 15th (local time), according to New Zealand media, researchers at the University of Otago in New Zealand confirmed this fact through the "Dunedin Study," a longitudinal project that continuously tracked the development of 1,000 babies born in Otepopoti Dunedin, South Island, from April 1972 to March 1973.
Dr. Kim Meredith-Jones, who led the study, said, "One in two study participants was found to have had a bone fracture during childhood." About 25% of males and 15% of females among the participants experienced fractures more than twice.
The study revealed that people who had one or more bone fractures in childhood were more than twice as likely to experience bone fractures again in adulthood compared to those who had no fracture experience. Additionally, women who experienced childhood fractures showed significantly lower hip bone density at age 45 compared to those who did not.
However, the researchers were unable to determine why some children experience multiple fractures or how childhood fracture experiences relate to adult fractures and bone health. Previous studies, however, have shown that factors such as impoverished family environments, intense physical activity, being overweight or having a high body mass index, vitamin D deficiency, low calcium intake, and experiences of physical abuse are associated with fractures.
Children who experience repeated fractures may have particularly fragile skeletons, making them more susceptible to fractures during sports or physical activities. Dr. Jones emphasized, "People who did not experience fractures in childhood are more likely to avoid fractures in adulthood," adding, "Those who experienced fractures in childhood may face risks to their bone health as adults, so various preventive measures should be utilized." Parents of children who have repeatedly fractured bones during childhood should inform their children in advance that their skeletons may become fragile as they age.
Dr. Jones suggested preventive measures such as increasing weight-bearing activities, optimal intake of calcium and vitamin D, and increasing protein and dairy consumption. He stressed that these behavioral changes should be started early and maintained throughout life. Since osteoporosis tends to affect adults mainly after middle age, the researchers plan to continue studying whether the association between childhood fractures and adult bone health persists after menopause in women and whether it affects men's bone health throughout their lives.
Meanwhile, osteoporosis can occur due to aging, menopause, hormonal changes, or medications. To prevent it, it is advisable to avoid alcohol and smoking and to limit salty foods. Additionally, appropriate aerobic exercise, balanced nutrient intake, and exposure to sunlight for about 15 minutes at least twice a week to synthesize sufficient vitamin D necessary for bones are recommended.
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