Osteoporosis and the Twins Bone Health Study
 
Osteoporosis (os-TE-oh-POOR-oh-sis) causes bones to lose strength and break easily as a person grows older. More than 25 million people in the United States are affected, with women at greater risk than men. Osteoporosis develops because aging is accompanied by a greater loss of bone than the body can replace with new bone tissue. Factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis include: being female, having a family history, having a small frame, having previous fractures, inactivity, low calcium intake in the diet, cigarette smoking, vitamin D deficiency, low body mass index and estrogen deficiency. Twin studies and mother-daughter studies have shown that genetics also plays a significant role in determining bone strength. But this is not the whole story.
We are conducting the Twins Bone Health Study in an effort to combine information on both the genetic and environmental factors that influence the strength of our bones. To do this, we are examining the variability in bone quality among twins (both identical and non-identical). Twins are recruited during the annual Twins Day Festival held in Twinsburg, Ohio. Twins are asked to provide information about their health, lifestyle, diet, and exercise. Height, weight, and body mass index are measured. An ultrasound unit is used to measure bone quality. Finally, cotton swabs are used to collect cells from the lining the participant’s cheeks for DNA extraction. Eventually, these DNA samples will be analyzed for genetic factors that are associated with bone mass.
If you would like to participate, please join us at the Twins Day festival in August. More information on this is available through the Twins Days Association.
Zygosity testing is complete for twins who participated through 2001. Testing continues for those who participate in 2002. Results, an explanation of how this testing was performed and its reliability are available. To receive them, you can leave a message at (216) 368-5847 with your identification number and you will be contacted.
Additional information on osteoporosis can be obtained through the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
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