What proportion of adult bone mass is typically acquired by age 18 in girls?

By age 18, girls typically acquire around 85% of their adult bone mass. This is a critical period for bone development, as adolescence is when the most significant accumulation of bone occurs due to hormonal changes and increased physical activity. During this time, the body is growing rapidly, and optimal nutrition, especially adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, is crucial to support this growth.

After this age, while bone density can continue to increase, the rate of accumulation slows down significantly. Most individuals will reach their peak bone mass in their late twenties, but by 18, girls have already established a substantial portion of their lifetime bone density. This highlights the importance of focusing on bone health during the teenage years to set the foundation for strong bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.