What happens to bone loss after a person reaches peak Bone Mineral Density (BMD)?

After an individual reaches their peak Bone Mineral Density (BMD), which typically occurs in their late 20s to early 30s, bone loss begins to gradually increase over time. This phenomenon is a natural part of aging and is influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and overall health.

Once peak BMD is achieved, the balance between bone resorption (the process where bone is broken down) and bone formation shifts in favor of resorption, leading to a net decrease in bone mass. This gradual increase in bone loss can predispose individuals to conditions such as osteoporosis later in life, especially in postmenopausal women due to the decrease in estrogen levels, which plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density.

Understanding the dynamics of bone density after reaching peak BMD is essential for implementing early preventive strategies to maintain bone health and reduce the risk of fractures as one ages.