In this article we give a brief overview of some of the factors that affect bone health in children and adolescents. The period of life from birth to adolescence is vital in terms of building a healthy skeleton. It is also important in terms of developing habits that aid in keeping bones strong and healthy. These habits can help maintain robust bone health through the individual’s adult and older years.
As in childhood and adolescence, the role of physical activity in bone health is important throughout the adult years as well. Healthcare providers should promote physical activity in all adults according to their capabilities. In addition to healthy bones, regular physical activity is beneficial in maintaining an optimum body weight. It also improves muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. It keeps metabolic parameters in check. Resistance training and weight-bearing impact activities have been demonstrated to be especially beneficial to skeletal health. Examples of bone-healthy physical activities include walking, jogging, running, jumping, climbing stairs, lifting weights, racquet sports, soccer, dancing, and hiking.
Bone health is a pressing issue in America and around the world. It needs to be addressed with a preventive approach with the early institution of interventions. There is a need for healthcare providers to understand the importance of bone health as a public health issue. The goal is to promote strong bones in the American population so that fractures and their associated complications can be prevented. In this article we provide a brief overview of how bone health is an important public health issue.
Millions of Americans are affected by bone diseases from various causes, the most common of which is osteoporosis. People with osteoporosis are at a high risk of fractures. Fractures are often disabling and lead to deterioration in the patient’s physical and mental health. Primary osteoporosis is the most common type of osteoporosis. It is the result of deteriorating bone structure and bone loss with aging. Primary osteoporosis can be prevented through proper nutrition, adequate physical exercise, and when necessary, appropriate treatment. Secondary osteoporosis is the result of other diseases that affect the bones and certain drugs and toxic substances that make bones weak. If secondary osteoporosis is recognized in time, it can be prevented with nutrition, physical activity, and treatment if needed.
Osteoporosis is especially prevalent in older adults. Healthcare professionals play a valuable role in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of bone diseases in this age group of patients. In general, the nutritional guidelines for younger adults are also applicable to older adults. However, some specific recommendations are relevant to this group of patients in terms of nutrition and bone health in the elderly.
Bone health in America is a challenge because of the magnitude of issues related to this aspect of healthcare. In fact, the status of bone health in the country is in grave danger. Fractures due to unhealthy, diseased bones are common. An estimated 1.5 million fractures related to bone disease occur each year. These not only affect the quality of life of the individuals who suffer them but also place a considerable financial burden on the country’s healthcare system.