Osteoporosis Screening

Osteoporosis, meaning porous bone, is a disease that is characterized by a deterioration of bone tissue leading to increased susceptibility to bone fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist. The prevalence of this painful and often crippling disease is unfortunate, because it can be prevented through proper nutrition, activity, and lifestyle.

Did you know…

Humans reach peak bone mass, or maximum bone density and strength of most skeletal sites, between age 20 and 30. Bone loss proceeds at the rate of about 0.5% to 1% per year from the age of approximately 40 years in both genders, although in women this loss is increased in the first three to five years after menopause. This change places an individual at risk for developing osteoporosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you screen for Osteoporosis?

The most common osteoporosis test is dual X-ray absorptiometry — also called DXA or DEXA. It measures people’s spine, hip, or total body bone density to help gauge fracture risk.

Who should have this test preformed?

All postmenopausal women below age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis.
All women aged 65 and older.
Women with medical conditions associated with osteoporosis. Your health care provider can tell you if you have a medical condition associated with osteoporosis.
Men age 70 or older.
Men ages 50-69 with risk factors for osteoporosis or medical conditions associated with osteoporosis.

Who is more at risk for developing osteoporosis?

Your sex. Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than are men.

Age. The older you get, the greater your risk of osteoporosis.
Race. You’re at greatest risk of osteoporosis if you’re white or of Asian descent.
Family history. Having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk, especially if your mother or father experienced a hip fracture.
Body frame size. Men and women who have small body frames tend to have a higher risk because they may have less bone mass to draw from as they age.