Journal of Osteoporosis and Physical Activity
Open Access

Abstract

Interaction Between Clinical and Laboratorys Indicators and Genetic Polymorphysms of the Calcaneal Bone Mineral Density in Children Starting Puberty. Is this a Time for Intervention?

Blaženka MIškic, Antonija Raguz, Djuro Miskic, Vesna Cosic, Marijana Knezevic Pravecek and Marica Jandric Balen

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of selected genetic polymorphisms and bone mineral density (BMD) in children reaching puberty and atthe age of 18. The study sample consisted of 168 boys residing in Slavonski Brod, Croatia. Calcaneal quantitative ultrasound measurements were undertaken with Sahara device (Hologic). Genetic polymorphisms for CYP19 aromatase, IGF-1,estrogen receptor and androgen receptor were analysed. Each examinee completed a survey in order to estimate dietary habits and other possible behavioural patterns associated with bone mineral density. The results indicated significant association ofCYP19 aromatase polymorphism and estrogen receptor gene with quantitative ultrasound index (P=0.039) and estimated bone mineral density (P=0.049), as well as significant association of calcium intake and physical activity.

Although bone mineral density is a result of very complex and multiple mechanisms, findings of this study give us an insight to which subjects are at increased risk for developing osteoporosis and other related adverse events in later life and suggests means of an interventional program including dietary habits, calcium intake and increased physical activity that could ameliorate bone structure density weakness, detected in pre-pubertal period and connected to mentioned gene polymorphisms. The program should take place during puberty itself, a known period of largest bone mineral density acquirement.