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Bone Density

 

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What Is a Bone Density Test?

Who Is At Risk For Osteoporosis?
Why Is It Important To Get Tested?

Links

What Is a Bone Density Test?

A bone density test is a way to help your doctor measure the health of your bones It may also be used to monitor your rate of bone loss and response to therapy. Small amounts of radiation are used to determine the thickness or density of bones in the spine and hip. Bone density tests are safe, painless and noninvasive. You won't even need to undress and the test takes about 30 minutes. 

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 Who Is At Risk For Osteoporosis?
The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends bone density testing for women under the age of 65 who have one or more risk factors for osteoporosis. The National Osteoporosis Foundation also recommends bone density testing for all women over the age of 65.

Below is a list of risk factors for osteoporosis:

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Age

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Fair Skin (Caucasian or Asian)

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Small Bone Structure

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Low Body Weight

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Early Menopause 

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Low Calcium Intake

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Smoking

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Alcohol Abuse 

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Certain Long-term Medications

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Lack of Exercise

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Family History of Osteoporosis

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Why Is It Important To Get Tested?
Bone density testing is the most accurate way to assess bone health. Early diagnosis can make a difference in your life.

bulletOne-third of a woman's lifetime bone loss can occur in the first five years following menopause. This rapid bone loss can cause bones to weaken and break.
bulletNearly one in every two women over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her remaining lifetime.  

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Links

National Osteoporosis Foundation - Fighting Osteoporosis & Promoting Bone Health

International Osteoporosis Foundation - IOF's mission is to advance the understanding of osteoporosis and to promote prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disease worldwide.

 

 

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Last modified: April 02, 2003