There is a safe and easy test that can asses your risk of developing osteoporosis.
The test is:

painless

requires no special preparation or dietary restrictions

no disrobing

uses small amounts of x-ray to produce images of the spine and hip

The patient lies on a large examination table that is padded and comfortable.
Data is entered into a computer by the densitometrist and then the equipment scans the spine and hip. The exam takes approximately 15 minutes. Results from this test will assist your doctor in determining if you are at risk for osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis A disease characterized by: Low bone mass Microarchitectural deterioration of the bone Hip, vertebral, and forearm fractures BMD > 2.5 below young adult mean value* *As defined by the World Health Orginazation

Consequenceses of Hip Fractures More than 90% of hip fractures are related to osteoporosis   Die of complication 12 - 20% Long-term care required 15 - 20% Impaired lifestyle ~ 50% Required hospitalization > 95% National Osteoporosis Foundation 1993

Some risk factors are:

Family history of osteoporosis

A small thin frame

History of bone fracture

Low body weight

Low calcium diet

Current smoking

Hyperthyroidism

Mobility

Age

Although osteoporosis is a disease of mature adults, (not just women), prevention begins in the growing years when optimal calcium intake is vital to the growing skeleton.

Dr. Cheryl Viglione has over fifteen years experience in diagnosing osteoporosis and Dr. Deborah Lucas has ten years experience in evaluating osteoporosis. Both are certified by the International Society of Clinical Densitometry.