DEXA
Bone Densitometry
Osteoporosis is a disease that reduces the strength of
your bones, causing them to become brittle and prone to fractures. It is estimated at age
50, a woman has n
early a 40% 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.
Early detection using a bone density measurement is the best way available to help physicians diagnose osteoporosis. Twin Lakes Regional's Bone Densitometry service offers bone density testing to provide physicians with an accurate assessment of patient bone health.
To detect
osteoporosis accurately, doctors use an enhanced form of x-ray technology
called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA). DEXA bone
densitometry
is today's established
standard for
measuring bone mineral density (BMD). DEXA
is a quick, painless procedure for measuring
bone loss. Measurement of the lower spine
and
hips are most often done.
The following increases your risk for osteoporosis: Low weight, caffeine, post menopause, smoking, low calcium diet including men and women in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s.