Children Can Also Suffer From Osteoporosis, Warns Health Expert Ahead of World Osteoporosis Day

Children can also develop weak bones and osteoporosis, a condition usually thought to only affect older adults. Ahead of World Osteoporosis Day on October 20, paediatric orthopaedic specialist Dr Manoj Padman shared details on how the condition affects children and busted five common myths.

Causes and Signs

Childhood osteoporosis is not common and usually happens because of underlying medical issues, chronic illnesses, lack of proper nutrition, low mobility, or long-term use of certain drugs like corticosteroids. It can also happen due to inherited bone and connective tissue disorders. Up to 50 percent of children may get a fracture before growing up because they play and fall down often. However, parents should get a medical checkup if a child has repeated fractures, two or more long-bone fractures before age 10, or fractures from very minor falls. Low bone strength often shows no clear signs until a child feels ongoing bone pain or breaks a bone.

Prevention and Testing

Calcium is vital for bone growth, but healthy bones also need vitamin D, good food, and daily exercise. Children should do weight-bearing exercises that fit their age, and take supplements if a doctor or diet needs point to it. Because children are still growing, bone density test results must be checked based on their age, body size, and skeletal development. Doctors may suggest blood tests or bone density scans depending on the medical history.

Context

World Osteoporosis Day is observed every year on October 20 to raise global awareness about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of bone diseases. Building strong bones during childhood helps prevent severe bone weakness and fractures later in life as people grow older.