Osteoporosis as a pediatric disease: role of calcium and heredity.

Osteoporosis is characterized by a reduction in bone mass. This reduction may be determined during growth or acquired in later life. Since osteoporosis is easier to prevent than to treat, the goal is therefore to identify individuals who might be at high risk. We suggest that the identification of those individuals should start in childhood and adolescence. Calcium intake and skeletal modelling/turnover are the most important determinants of calcium balance during this age period. Adequate calcium supply should contribute to peak bone mass and therefore prevention of osteoporosis later in life. We indicate that genetic information from both parents plays an important role as well.