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July 1, 2004
Osteoporosis can rob you of your independence.
Osteoporosis is a disease that gradually weakens bones, causing them to become brittle and prone to fractures. Osteoporosis and its associated fractures can rob you of your mobility and independence.
It is estimated that at age 50, a woman has nearly a 50% chance of developing an osteoporotic fracture during her remaining lifetime. A woman's lifetime risk of hip fracture alone is equal to the combined risk of developing breast, uterine and ovarian cancer - and up to 20% more women who suffer hip fractures die within one year of the fracture than those of a similar age who haven't suffered a hip fracture.
A bone density measurement can help your doctor diagnose osteoporosis. Early detection using bone density measurement is the best way to protect yourself from potentially debilitating effects of osteoporosis.
The procedure determines your bone mineral density (BMD) for the area measured and compare that result with the average BMD of young adult normals of your sex and race at their peak BMD. This information will help your doctor determine if you need to take certain steps to protect your bone health. Bone density measurement is simple, safe, noninvasive and painless - and you don't need to undress.
A measurement usually takes from 5 to 20 minutes. You will be asked to be very still during this time. You will be exposed to a very small amount of radiation - usually less than 1/20 the exposure of a standard chest X-ray. Wear comfortable clothing, preferably something without metal buttons, buckles or zippers.
If you think you may be at risk for osteoporosis, ask your doctor if a bone density measurement will be of value to you.
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