Osteoporosis screening

http://www.umediagnostics.com/health-screening/osteoporosis-screening/

Osteoporosis is often called the ‘silent disease’ because there is no direct symptom associated with bone loss.

In many cases, the first ‘symptom’ is a broken bone. Patients with osteoporosis may not know that they have the disease until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump or fall causes a hip fracture or a vertebra to collapse.

Getting a bone density scan at UME Diagnostics is the best way to determine your bone health. This scan can identify osteoporosis, determine your risk for fractures (broken bones), and measure your response to osteoporosis treatment. The most widely recognized bone mineral density scan is called a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry or DEXA scan. It is painless – a bit like having an x-ray, but with much less exposure to radiation.

One in every three women and one in every 12 men will develop osteoporosis after the age of 50. Osteoporosis can lead to disabling bone breaks and fractures. It can also be the cause of back pain and should be diagnosed before compression fractures occur.

Bone density: strong bones (left), bones with low BMD (right).

Those at higher risk:

• Are post-menopausal
• Over the age of 50
• Have fractured a bone after the age of 40
• Have a family history of osteoporosis
• Are taking steroid medication
• Are being treated for breast cancer
• Have or ever had an eating disorder
• Lack of direct exposure to sunlight on your skin (sunlight is a major factor in the production of Vitamin D, which is vital for healthy bones)

For information on how to book an appointment please see the booking and payment page, or contact your nearest centre.