It is Important to prioritize bone health in kids during the pandemic

Dr R Sankar

(Senior Consultant, Pediatric Orthopedic & Spine Surgeon)

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining optimum bone health. Recent studies indicate an increase in Vitamin D deficiency by almost 20% in the general population during the pandemic. Dr R Sankar, Senior Consultant Pediatric, Orthopedic & Spine Surgeon, Apollo Children's Hospital, Chennai, said – "The Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it a lot of uncertainty. Due to social distancing measures, including the closure of schools and parks and cancellation of team sports during the pandemic, children's are spending more time at home. Apart from the genetic factors, age and race, bone growth is mainly influenced by three main factors, namely calcium, vitamin D and physical activities. Limited sunlight exposure and physical activity have contributed to this trend and had a cumulative adverse impact on the musculoskeletal well being of children and adolescence."

"Bone growth is very important for the health of children. Building good bone mass can delay severe bone loss with increasing age. This is very true, especially with girls, where they develop a condition called osteoporosis when they become old resulting in weak bones. This will result in them developing spine deformities and frequent fractures."

"The main source of Vitamin D is sunlight. Hence, children need adequate exposure to sunlight daily. Children not exposed to sunlight develop a condition called rickets, where bones become weak, resulting in deformity and difficulty in walking."

"For calcium to be absorbed from the intestines, the body needs Vitamin D. Calcium has been singled out as a major public health concern today. Children need at least 1000-1500 mg of calcium during their peak growth period, which is between the age of 10 and 14 years. They should take calcium to reach food like milk, yoghurt, vegetables, almonds etc."

"Apart from calcium and Vitamin D, bones grow stronger and harder when they are exercised. Physical activities help to increase or preserve bone mass as the child grows. Children should participate in at least 60 minutes of enjoyable, moderate-intensity physical activities every day. It also helps to maintain a healthy body weight which is very important for bone health throughout life. During the Covid 19 pandemic, many children are substituting organized sports and school activities with activities like cycling and trampoline. They should be encouraged to undertake such exercises, but with adequate safety precautions."