Adolescents and Bone Health

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Sep;63(3):504-511. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000548.

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical time for the acquisition of peak bone mass. There are modifiable factors that may influence bone health in an adolescent. For those at risk for bone fragility, initial management includes optimization of calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and maintenance of a normal body weight. In certain scenarios, bisphosphonate treatment is indicated, as is reviewed. How hormonal contraceptives affect bone mineral density is unclear, but in patients with risk factors or known bone fragility, prescribers should consider their skeletal effects. Some conditions, including restrictive eating disorders and primary ovarian insufficiency, warrant long-term monitoring of bone health.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Development / physiology*
  • Body Weight Maintenance / physiology
  • Bone Density
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bone Development / physiology*
  • Calcium, Dietary / metabolism*
  • Diet Therapy / methods
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Fractures, Bone* / epidemiology
  • Fractures, Bone* / metabolism
  • Fractures, Bone* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Resistance Training / methods
  • Risk Factors
  • Vitamin D / metabolism*

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents
  • Calcium, Dietary
  • Diphosphonates
  • Vitamin D