Wrist fractures are occurring more often, especially during the adolescent growth spurt, suggesting increasing problems with bone density.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have been following the incidence of bone fractures over the last three decades. They find a 32 per cent increase in males and a 56 per cent increase in females. The increases are greatest among girls aged 8 to 11 and boys aged 11 to 14 - just when the adolescent growth spurt occurs.

It's possible that the increase is due to increased physical activity which, in itself, is healthy. But it may also reflect decreased bone density following changes in dietary habits. In particular, there is a trend towards the consumption of carbonated drinks and away from milk - which may leave young people short on calcium. Further research will reveal whether these early fractures leave these young people vulnerable to fractures in later life.

Source

Journal of the American Medical Association 17th September 2003