Peak Bone Mass and Prevention of Osteoporosis in Adolescence: Role of Vitamin D and Calcium

Peak bone mass (PBM) reaching 80-90 percent in late adolescence, it is a major determinant of bone mass later in life. Prevention of osteoporosis should start early in life, before PBM is reached. Puberty has varying effects on skeletal mineralization depending on the skeletal site and changes in hormone concentration of different bones. Vitamin D and calcium have been recognized as potential contributors to bone development and bone strength. In Saudi Arabia, vitamin D deficiency is common among youth. Many factors can influence to achieve peak bone mass. Some of these factors can’t be change such as race, gender, however, the ones that can be changed are physical activity and nutrition. Targeting this age group may help generate a better understanding of bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in later life, which is a very costly disease. Therefore, it should be educate school adolescents by developing a program for public health recommendations to improve their knowledge in health and lifestyle and increase their poor information about the nutrient intake, sunlight and bone health, which will be vital for the future of Saudi Arabia.