Children's Bone Health and Calcium: NICHD Research Information

Bone mineral accretion during growth and development in childhood is an important indicator of the risk for osteoporosis later in life. Those who do not reach optimal bone density by adolescence will not have optimal peak bone mass. Children who enter adulthood with compromised skeletal systems resulting from poor nutrition, chronic disease, or therapeutic interventions may have a greater risk for osteoporosis later in their adult years.

top of pageBACK TO TOP