Why is this elementary school based education and prevention program so important?

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones to become weak and thin increasing the risk of fracture.

The number one prevention against Osteoporosis is building maximum bone density during childhood and adolescence. The greatest opportunity to maximize bone density occurs "between the ages of 10 and 18." Ninety percent of the peak bone mass is achieved during this period of dramatic skeletal growth. Nutrition, specifically calcium intake, and exercise are integral components of bone health.