Which factor is most strongly associated with idiopathic scoliosis?

Which factor is most strongly associated with idiopathic scoliosis?

• A. Genetic factors
• B. Environmental factors
• C. Poor posture
• D. Vitamin deficiency

Answer: (A)

Genetic factors are the strongest association with idiopathic scoliosis. Although the exact genes aren’t fully mapped, family studies show that scoliosis tends to run in families and identical twins are more likely to both be affected than fraternal twins, indicating a hereditary component and possible interaction with growth during adolescence. Environmental influences, posture, and vitamin deficiencies haven’t shown a consistent causal link to the development of idiopathic scoliosis, even though poor posture might affect appearance or symptoms. So the strongest, best-supported factor is genetics.

Genetic factors are the strongest association with idiopathic scoliosis. Although the exact genes aren’t fully mapped, family studies show that scoliosis tends to run in families and identical twins are more likely to both be affected than fraternal twins, indicating a hereditary component and possible interaction with growth during adolescence. Environmental influences, posture, and vitamin deficiencies haven’t shown a consistent causal link to the development of idiopathic scoliosis, even though poor posture might affect appearance or symptoms. So the strongest, best-supported factor is genetics.