Dietary Calcium Intake, Physical Activity, and Bone Mineral Density in Young Women in Plateau State

Peak bone mass attained during early adulthood is a critical determinant of osteoporosis risk in later life, with dietary calcium intake and physical activity as two of the most important modifiable contributors to bone mineral density in young women. Data on bone health determinants in Nigerian young women are sparse, limiting the development of evidence-based prevention frameworks. This study examines dietary calcium intake, physical activity levels, and bone mineral density in young women aged 18 to 35 years in Jos, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. An analytical cross-sectional study enrolled 260 women through multistage sampling from two tertiary institutions and surrounding communities. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at a well-equipped referral hospital. Dietary calcium intake was assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire supplemented by a 24-hour recall, with calcium values computed using a Nigerian food composition database. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire long form. Sun exposure, body mass index, parity, hormonal contraceptive use, serum vitamin D, and calcium supplement use were recorded as covariates. Multiple linear regression examined the independent contributions of dietary calcium and physical activity to bone mineral density at each site. Findings will provide the first systematic data on bone health nutrition in young women from the Nigerian Plateau region. Keywords: calcium intake, bone mineral density, physical activity, young women, Plateau State.