Final answer:
Peak bone mass is reached around the age of 30, not 20; hence, the statement is false. Building sufficient bone mass by 30 is critical as this can decrease the risk of osteoporosis, especially in post-menopausal women who experience a more rapid loss of bone mass.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that peak bone mass occurs at approximately 20 years of age is false. Based on referenced data, bone density peaks at about 30 years of age. Having a lower peak bone mass can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, making it essential for individuals to focus on building bone mass in their younger years through adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and weight-bearing exercise.
While skeletal maturity, in terms of growth in bone length, is reached around age 20, the bone mass continues to increase until approximately 30. Post-menopausal women lose bone density more rapidly due to a decrease in estrogen production, which underscores the importance of maximizing bone mass before this age.