Youth Hub

Bone health is an important part of your general health. Certain conditions and medications can lead to poor bone health in young adults. These issues need to be investigated by your doctor. If required, further steps will be taken to protect your bone health to avoid more serious problems later in life.

Bone facts

• Peak bone mass is achieved during your twenties
• A growth spurt during puberty is an important time for bone development
• Calcium, vitamin D and exercise are all important for growing and maintaining bones

Did you know?

There are 206 bones in the body – the smallest is in the ear, and the largest is in the leg. Bone is living tissue broken down and rebuilt in an ongoing cycle by special cells in the body. This keeps bones healthy and helps them heal if they fracture or break.

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones can fracture more easily than normal bone, for example, after having a minor bump or fall. While the condition is mainly associated with adults later in life, it can affect young people depending on certain risk factors.

Poor bone health and osteoporosis in younger adults

Specific health conditions and medications can directly lead to osteoporosis in younger people. These include:

• Anorexia nervosa
• Undiagnosed coeliac disease
• Certain breast cancer treatments
• Early menopause or low testosterone
• Certain thyroid conditions
• Severe lack of calcium in the daily diet or very low vitamin D levels
• Childhood asthma that requires ongoing use of corticosteroids
• Certain medications for epilepsy
• Smoking / excessive alcohol intake

These specific risk factors should lead to a discussion with a GP or specialist about any potential impact on your bone health.

If required, a bone density scan or blood test may be arranged by your doctor to review your bone health. Further action may be taken to protect your bone health, depending on the results.

Hear from some young adults sharing personal experiences about their bone health.