How does smoking affect bone health?

How does smoking affect bone health?

• A. It is a risk factor for osteoporosis and is associated with lower BMD
• B. It enhances bone density and strength
• C. It has no known effects on bone health
• D. It promotes calcium absorption

Answer: (A)

Smoking has a detrimental effect on bone health and is widely recognized as a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. Individuals who smoke often have lower bone mineral density (BMD), which directly correlates with an increased risk of fractures. The harmful substances in cigarette smoke can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium and reduce the overall strength of the bones, contributing to a decline in bone mass over time. Research supports that the chemical components in cigarettes can adversely affect osteoblast function (the cells responsible for bone formation) and promote osteoclast activity (the cells responsible for bone resorption), leading to a net loss of bone density. This makes smoking a critical concern in the management and prevention of osteoporosis and related fractures.

Smoking has a detrimental effect on bone health and is widely recognized as a significant risk factor for osteoporosis. Individuals who smoke often have lower bone mineral density (BMD), which directly correlates with an increased risk of fractures. The harmful substances in cigarette smoke can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium and reduce the overall strength of the bones, contributing to a decline in bone mass over time. Research supports that the chemical components in cigarettes can adversely affect osteoblast function (the cells responsible for bone formation) and promote osteoclast activity (the cells responsible for bone resorption), leading to a net loss of bone density. This makes smoking a critical concern in the management and prevention of osteoporosis and related fractures.