Bone Abstracts

There is evidence from case-control and prospective cohort studies that low bone volumetric density is a risk factor for fractures in children and adolescents, and the size of effect is similar to that seen in postmenopausal women. Bone density and size is important even in childhood fractures due to moderate or severe trauma. However, there are determinants that may influence fracture risk through other pathways than bone fragility. These include gender, ethnicity, obesity and physical activity. Understanding how all the determinants of fractures in childhood and adolescence interact may allow us to intervene and reduce the burden of fractures in this age group.