Does Excess Body Fat Impair Bone Development?

Osteoporosis and obesity are major public health concerns with a combined cost of $164 billion spent in the United States alone. The effect of adipose tissue on bone was thought to be protective however further research suggests there is a detrimental effect through a connection involving the endocrine system. Insulin, adiponectin and leptin all affect the skeletal system and adipose tissue. Excess adipose tissue in individuals correlates with hyperinsulinemia, high levels of leptin and low levels of adiponectin. The connection between adipose tissue and bone is especially important in children during the pubertal growth spurt. During this time strong bones are developed in children that will carry them throughout their life. If adipose tissue has a negative effect on bone development bone strength may be impaired resulting in higher risk for fractures later in life. This review presents research in the areas of obesity and osteoporosis with the aim of identifying interrelationships, specifically focusing on children and bone development, and whether obesity has positive or negative effects on bone