SYRACUSE (AP) -- The State University of New York's Upstate Medical University has received a $2 million federal grant to study bone density in young female gymnasts.

Researchers will look at whether gymnastics in childhood and adolescence leads to stronger, thicker bones in adulthood. That would reduce the risk of osteoporosis in old age.

Associate Professor Tamara Scerpella has been studying the skeletal effects of gymnastics during growth for more than a decade at SUNY Upstate. She's seeking participants for the new study.

Participants must be healthy girls ages 8 to 12, both gymnasts and non-gymnasts for comparison. They must be able to commit for all five years of the study and attend bone measurement appointments every six months.

To enroll in the study, contact Tina Craig at 315-464-8618.

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