| Date | November 2016 | Marks available | 3 | Reference code | 16N.3.SL.tz0.8 |
| Level | Standard Level | Paper | Paper 3 | Time zone | time zone 0 |
| Command term | Discuss | Question number | 8 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Outline how bone density changes as an individual gets older.
Discuss three major risk factors for osteoporosis.
Markscheme
bone density increases «from birth» through to around 35–45 years of age ✔
from this age onwards bone density decreases ✔
a decrease in female bone density occurs rapidly after the menopause as women age ✔
a lack of dietary calcium especially in youth and adolescents can reduce bone density ✔
toxins and free radicals produced by cigarette smoking affect the balance of estrogen ✔
cigarette smoking can damage osteoblasts ✔
having lower bone density compared to other build types makes ectomorphs more susceptible to osteoporosis
OR
a low BMI increases the risk of osteoporosis ✔
early menopause in older women which leads to reduced estrogen levels can reduce bone density ✔
the female triad
OR
females who exercise intensely suffer from a pause in their menstruation similar to early menopause
OR
athletic Amenorrhea regular weight bearing dynamic exercise helps to build and maintain bone mass, therefore bone density decreases with physical inactivity ✔
Examiners report
Generally well understood.
Generally well understood.
