Educating Young Women about Calcium

Abstract

Background: It is known that the optimal period for peak calcium absorption in young women is near the onset of menses and declines for the rest of their lives. Low intake of calcium during adolescence has been associated with the eventual onset of osteoporosis.

Method: Education on osteoporosis prevention was integrated into a new program geared to middle school and high school girls ages 12–19. This program, entitled “Mirror … Mirror” was developed by the National Live Stock and Meat Board and contains information on body image, nutritious eating, and eating disorders. Education concerning peak bone mass, calcium requirements, exercise, and effects of anorexia on bone mass were presented during the “Mirror … Mirror” program.

Results: Fifteen “Mirror … Mirror” programs containing osteoporosis prevention strategies for teens have been presented to girls aged 12–15 in various Bucks County schools and community agencies.

Conclusions: Education in osteoporosis prevention can be easily integrated into existing programs that are geared to the 12–19-year-old age group.