EVALUATION OF BONE MINERAL DENSITY OF STUDENTS FROM THE POPE JOHN PAUL II STATE SCHOOL OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN BIAŁA PODLASKA

Background. Nutritional status is one of the factors enabling prediction the possibility of emergence and development of civilization diseases. Correct mineral nutritional status is important and particularly proper bones calcification. The aim of the work was to assess bone mineral density of female and male students from the Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biała Podlaska. Consumption of products which are the main source of calcium in the students’ diet was assessed as well.

Material and methods. Bone mineral density was measured by densitometry method. The consumption of food that are sources of calcium in students’ diet was assessed by questionnaire.

Results. In groups of women, changes characteristic of osteopenia were showed among 54.9 % women to 25 years and 67.6 % in the older group. Changes characteristic of osteoporosis were found too. In the group of men aged up to 25 changes typical of osteopenia revealed 62.3% and characteristic of osteoporosis 6.6% of examined students. Among 9 older students changes typical of osteopenia were found among 44.4%. Dairy products were main source of calcium in students’ daily food rations.

Conclusions. There is a need to take action in the field of nutritional health education, including the practical application of knowledge in the prevention of osteopenia and osteoporosis , addressed to young people. Students from the Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biała Podlaska should be included in the program of nutrition education program for the prevention of osteoporosis