Research in adults has shown that depression as well as smoking has a negative impact on bone health (i.e., bone mineral density). In turn, this increases the likelihood that osteoporosis and fracture may occur—problems that carry with them significant personal and public health costs. Our longitudinal study (crosssequential design) is the first to address the impact of depressive symptoms and smoking on adolescent bone health—a time when over 50% of bone mass is accrued in girls. Recent findings from this study of 262 girls will be shared along with future directions in research that may impact prevention and intervention efforts.
- Psuprc091113Rev2
