Osteoporosis

According to the National Institutes of Health, 10 million people are estimated to have osteoporosis and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for this disease. Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women suffer from osteoporosis, a disease that can be prevented and treated.

Osteoporosis can strike at any age and it is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures annually, including 300,000 hip fractures, and approximately 700,000 vertebral fractures, 250,000 wrist fractures, and more than 300,000 fractures at other sites. One out of every two women over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime.

The early detection of osteoporosis is now very possible and more widely available than ever before. The peripheral bone density tests make early diagnosis and treatment possible and early treatment can prevent fractures. Peripheral bone density screenings administered at the heel or wrist are safe, quick and painless. No special preparations are required.

Bone density is directly related to bone fracture risk. Individuals over the age of 40 are often recommended to have a baseline bone density measurement to determine if peak bone mass has ever been developed. Individuals at risk should be monitored yearly to determine the rate of bone loss.

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