Maryam Delshad Siyahkaly

Citation

Thesis Title
Bone Health and Fracture Risk Factors in Children Living in New Zealand

Fractures are common in childhood but are a neglected public health issue. A complex interplay of non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors has been associated with childhood fractures. Early identification of risk factors during childhood could enable the instigation of lifestyle changes, thus enhancing bone mineralisation, preventing fractures, and improving adult bone health. Ms Delshad investigated fracture history and related risk factors (ethnicity, obesity, physical activity, calcium intake, sugar-sweetened beverages, and vitamin D status) in children living in Auckland, New Zealand. She found that being of South Asian ethnicity was a significant risk factor for fracture in boys. The results confirmed that some children were at high risk of vitamin D deficiency during winter months. Good nutrition (especially good sources of calcium and reducing SSB intakes) should be recommended to children during growth and development to reduce their risk of fractures.

Supervisors
Professor Pamela Von Hurst
Professor Marlena Kruger
Professor Cathryn Conlon
Professor Kathryn Beck