Abstract
AimIdentifying risk factors for low bone stiffness index (SI) might be one crucial strategy for osteoporosis prevention. Purpose was to characterize healthy schoolchildren across tertiles of SI.Subject and methodsIn 248 girls (13.4 ± 1.9 years, BMI: 20.2 ± 4.8 kg/m2) and 231 boys (13.6 ± 1.7 years, BMI: 19.3 ± 3.3 kg/m2), the following parameters were assessed: calcaneal SI (quantitative ultrasound), body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis), Bone Healthy Eating Index (BoneHEI; food frequency questionnaire), and physical activity level (PAL; activity questionnaire). Participants were classified according to age- and sex-specific SI tertiles (low, medium, and high). Between-group comparisons were achieved by Kruskal–Wallis-H-tests (α = 0.05).ResultsGirls with low SI had significantly lower body mass (49.2 ± 16.7 vs 54.8 ± 12.2 kg; p < 0.01), BMI (19.6 ± 5.4 vs 21.3 ± 3.9 kg/m2; p < 0.0001), fat-free mass (36.3 ± 8.3 vs 39.5 ± 6.0 kg; p < 0.01), and fat mass (23.7 ± 9.1 vs 26.8 ± 7.2%; p < 0.05) compared to those with high SI. In boys, significant differences between low and high SI were obtained for PAL (1.49 ± 0.12 vs 1.56 ± 0.14; p < 0.01). BoneHEI was not significantly different between tertiles in both sexes.ConclusionGirls with low body mass and boys with low PAL have a higher risk for low SI. Schoolchildren should strive for normal body mass and perform regular physical activity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
