Proposed equations and reference values for calculating bone health in children and adolescent based on age and sex

Abstract

BackgroundThe Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard for measuring BMD and bone mineral content (BMC). In general, DXA is ideal for pediatric use. However, the development of specific standards for particular geographic regions limits its use and application for certain socio-cultural contexts. Additionally, the anthropometry may be a low cost and easy to use alternative method in epidemiological contexts. The goal of our study was to develop regression equations for predicting bone health of children and adolescents based on anthropometric indicators to propose reference values based on age and sex.Methods3020 students (1567 males and 1453 females) ranging in ages 4.0 to 18.9 were studied from the Maule Region (Chile). Anthropometric variables evaluated included: weight, standing height, sitting height, forearm length, and femur diameter. A total body scan (without the head) was conducted by means of the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry. Bone mineral density (BMD) and the bone mineral content (BMC) were also determined. Calcium consumption was controlled for by recording the intake of the three last days prior to the evaluation. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated, and somatic maturation was determined by using the years of peak growth rate (APHV).ResultsFour regression models were generated to calculate bone health: for males BMD = (R2 = 0.79) and BMC = (R2 = 0.84) and for the females BMD = (R2 = 0.76) and BMC = (R2 = 0.83). Percentiles were developed by using the LMS method (p3, p5, p15, p25, p50, p75, p85, p95 and p97).ConclusionsRegression equations and reference curves were developed to assess the bone health of Chilean children and adolescents. These instruments help identify children with potential underlying problems in bone mineralization during the growth stage and biological maturation.

Fat-Free Mass and Bone Mineral Density of Young Soccer Players: Proposal of Equations Based on Anthropometric Variables

“…The predictors of the BMD, weight, length of the foot, and diameter of the humerus were the variables that showed high predictive values in goalkeepers and field players. These results are consistent with other studies conducted with non-athletic children and adolescents (Silva et al, 2006; Fonseca et al, 2008; Gómez-Campos et al, 2017). In addition, the results demonstrated that anthropometric variables that are routinely assessed in the field are necessary to use to analyze bone health in children and adolescents.…”

“…This ensured a high precision in the equations proposed for both working groups. In addition, some previous studies have reported similar R 2 values and levels of agreement for samples of children and adolescents (Cameron et al, 2004; Cossio-Bolaños et al, 2017; Gómez-Campos et al, 2017).…”

“…This information indicates that proper nutrition may have a significant impact on body weight and a consequent increase in length and diameter of the bones (Molgaard et al, 1997). Therefore, the presence of short and narrow bones may lead to a reduction in BMD and Bone Mineral Content (BMC) and possibly to other consequences for overall health (Gómez-Campos et al, 2017).…”

Muscle Mass in Children and Adolescents: Proposed Equations and Reference Values for Assessment

“…The results indicated an excellent level of agreement (CCC = 0.90–0.93) according to Lin's index (18). In addition, the precision and accuracy described the DRI were similar to those of other studies that have developed regression equations for body composition based on anthropometric variables (11, 22).…”

“…These indicators together may specifically be adjusted to each body size to more accurately identify the LM. Moreover, it may be a low cost and easy to use alternate method in epidemiological contexts (11).…”