Osteoporosis prevention starts in adolescence.

PURPOSE: To review the factors that influence the development of osteoporosis later in life, to relate those factors to adolescent health behaviors, and to provide nurse practitioners (NPs) with information on which to base evaluation and management decisions in primary care.

DATA SOURCES: Review of selected scientific literature with a focus on adolescent health and osteoporosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteoporosis is a major public health concern that affects more than 10 million people in the United States, resulting in annual costs to our health care system in excess of 13.5 billion dollars. Approximately 40% of women will experience a fracture due to osteoporosis. NPs should aim osteoporosis prevention efforts toward adolescents by encouraging habits that promote bone growth and development.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: It is imperative that female adolescents achieve adult peak bone mass prior to the age of 30, and the bone-building years before the age of 18 are especially important. NPs are ideally positioned to provide the screening and counseling to ensure that adolescents have the best chance to develop the habits that will result in peak adult bone mass.