Did you know that over 34 million Americans have low bone density? Most aren’t even aware of their condition, and that puts them at risk for osteoporosis and developing a fracture related to their condition.

Caucasian and Asian women are at the highest risk for osteoporosis. In fact, 25% of all post-menopausal women and 40% of women over 80 will experience a spine fracture as a result.¹ These fractures can cause permanent disability, impact lung function and decrease a person’s overall quality of life.

Those with osteoporosis are also at risk for hip fracture. For example, after a hip fracture, 40% are unable to walk independently and 60% will require assistance within a year. Mortality rates are as high as 20-24% in the first year after a hip fracture.^2,3,4,5

Fortunately, there is a fast and easy test to measure bone density. DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is a simple test to measure bone mineral density. All women over 65 should be screened, along with women over 50 who have risk factors, such as a family history of osteoporosis, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, inadequate calcium intake and long-term use of certain heartburn and steroid medication. Older men with risk factors may benefit from screening as well. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that men at risk and over 70 discuss bone density testing with their doctor.⁶

Once you know your risk for osteoporosis, you and your doctor can take steps to strengthen your bones and prevent further degeneration, which can help avoid a fracture. In fact, many of today’s modern treatment options can help you significantly reduce your risk of a spine or hip fracture.

DEXA testing is today’s standard of care for measuring bone mineral density. It’s completely non-invasive and covered by most insurance and Medicare. The test is performed at Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends osteoporosis screening for women over 65 and younger if they are at higher risk. If you aren’t sure if you qualify, talk to your doctor to find out if you’re at risk and if a DEXA bone density scan is right for you.

1. SOURCE: American Association of Neurological Surgeons website
2. Cooper, C., et al., Population-based study of survival after osteoporotic fractures. Am J Epidemiol, 1993. 137(9): p. 1001-5.
3. Leibson, C.L., et al., Mortality, disability, and nursing home use for persons with and without hip fracture: a population-based study. J Am Geriatr Soc, 2002. 50(10): p. 1644-50.
4. Magaziner, J., et al., Excess mortality attributable to hip fracture in white women aged 70 years and older. Am J Public Health, 1997. 87(10): p. 1630-6.
5. Magaziner, J., et al., Predictors of functional recovery one year following hospital discharge for hip fracture: a prospective study. J Gerontol, 1990. 45(3): p. M101-7.
6. Source: NIH – National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Skin Diseases https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis