New research indicates that even minor cases of anorexia can impair proper bone development in adolescents. The study, conducted by a team affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, found abnormal bone structure in children and adolescents with eating disorders.

One interesting finding of the study regarded bone density versus bone structure. Researchers discovered that anorexic children and adolescents with eating disorders exhibited abnormal bone structure sooner than reduced bone density. This finding indicates that the most immediate effect of even minor anorexia is altered bone structure, not loss of bone density.

Miriam A. Bredella, M.D., was the lead researcher. She is also a musculoskeletal radiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Dr. Bredella commented on the findings:

"Adolescence is the most critical period for growth of bone mass, and the onset of anorexia interferes with that process. ... Impairment of bone development may permanently alter bone structure and increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis in adult life."

(Source: ScienceDaily.com)

Posted By: jgarcia