Effect of early sports initiation on bone health of adolescents: ABCD - Growth Study

• Grant number: 24/04236-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: October 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Rômulo Araújo Fernandes
• Grantee: Jessica Casarotti Miguel da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between early sports initiation and aspects of bone health in adolescents of both sexes. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with longitudinal characteristics involved at least 153 adolescents aged 11 to 17 of both sexes. Primary outcomes will be musculoskeletal symptoms (assessed longitudinally over 28 weeks), bone density, geometry, and microarchitecture (assessed cross-sectionally). The sample will be subdivided into three groups (Control, Sport, and Early Initiation) and this subdivision will characterize an independent variable of the study. As adjustment variables, inflammatory markers (CRP and IL-6), bone remodeling (Osteocalcin, CTx and P1NP), as well as sleep, habitual physical activity and sports training parameters will be considered. The statistical analysis will consist of ANOVA, ANCOVA (adjusted by adjustment variables) and Cox Regression, setting statistical significance at values below 5%. EXPECTED RESULTS: It is expected to identify whether early sports practice is an element capable of putting the bone health of children and adolescents at risk.