Osteoporosis is often called the silent disease because it has no warning signs or symptoms until its developed. Though there are many things we can do to prevent Osteoporosis, like, taking additional calcium and vitamin D, exercising, and researching our family history. But only a bone density scan can help you physician determine if you have Osteoporosis.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation defines Osteoporosis as: “porous bone.” The disease is characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of the bone tissue. Because it causes decreased bone mass patients with Osteoporosis are more like to have more fragile bones and bone fractures. As many know, a fracture of the hip requires hospitalization, possibly surgery, and in some cases a patient may become bed ridden.

Our bones are not hard structures; in fact, they are living tissue, and the play an important role in protecting our organs and muscles. It is in our bones that calcium is stored to help keep them strong. From little children until about the age of 30 our bodies build and store new bone, but as we age our bones break down faster than we can make new bone. Men and women can both be affected by bone loss, but a woman’s bone loss accelerates after menopause because her body no longer produces estrogen.

Unlike a mammogram or annual exam, a bone density scan is a painless test that takes about 10-30 minutes to complete. A bone density scan tells your physician how dense your bones are, help your physician predict your chances of fracturing in the future, and allow him/her to determine the rate at which you are losing bone or monitor you treatment plan. The scan take x-rays to determine bone density in three areas; you hip, you spine, and your whole body. To determine when you should schedule your first bone density scan, use the guidelines below. As with any test, your healthcare provider can best determine when and if you need a bone density scan. Bone Density Testing Guidelines*

• Recommend for All women who are postmenopausal and at least 65 years of age.
• Recommend for women who are postmenopausal and younger than 65 years of age who have at least one risk factor for osteoporosis.
• On all women who are postmenopausal with fractures to confirm the diagnosis of osteoporosis and determine the severity of disease.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis*

• Age - The older you are, the more at risk you become for osteoporosis.
• Gender - Women have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis because they have less bone tissue and lose bone more rapidly than men.
• Family History of fractures - susceptibility to fracture may be hereditary.
• Personal History of fractures - If you have a personal history of fractures as an adult, it may increase your risk.
• Race - Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
• Bone Structure and Body weight - Being small boned and thin may increase your chances, under 127.
• Menopause/Menstrual History - Early or normal menopause and women who stop menstruating before menopause .
• Lifestyle - Cigarette smoking, drinking too much alcohol, not have a well balanced diet rich in calcium, and not exercising can increase your risk.
• Medications/Chronic Diseases - Certain medication to treat chronic conditions can put you at great risk because it may have a side effect that damages bones.
  Here are a few of those medications to consider:
  • Excessive thyroid hormones
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Antacids containing aluminum
  • Gonadotropin releasing hormones used for treatment of endometriosis
  • Methotrexate for cancer treatment
  • Cyclosporine A, an immunosuppressive drug
  • Heparin and cholestyramine, to control cholesterol levels

In addition to scheduling your mammogram, annual exam, and physical, you should also consider the need for a bone density scan. Osteoporosis can be managed, but it can also be life threatening. You and your physician, together, can determine if a bone density scan should be schedule. In addition, talk with your physician about preventive steps you can take to keep you bones healthy for life.