Bone Densitometry

Q1. What is Bone Densitometry?
A. Bone Densitometry (BMD) is currently accepted as being a quick, simple, painless examination that is currently the most sensitive screening tool used to detect bone loss in early stages of osteoporosis. It also is the least expensive and most cost effective method for this type of examination.

Q2. How does it work?
A. Bone Densitometry is a tool used to predict the possibility of a fracture. The resulting measurements of your bone density are compared to what is expected of someone your age, sex, size and ethnic background. It is also compared to what is estimated to be bone density of a young healthy adult of the same sex.

The information allows your doctor to determine if you have osteoporosis and the likelihood of a fracture happening. The best course of treatment can then be determined.

The ability of BMD to predict fractures is undisputed. It is similar to blood pressure predicting strokes and is more effective than using cholesterol to predict heart disease.

Q4. Who is at Risk?
A. In India, 1 in 6 women over 50 years old will break their femur (hip), while 1 in 4 will suffer severe fractures in one or more bones.

The death rate from osteoporosis-related fractures is greater than deaths caused by breast and ovarian cancer combined!

Some authorities believe you may be at risk for osteoporosis if you have one or more of the following:

• family history of osteoporosis

• early menopause either natural or surgical

• amenorrhea (lack of periods) particularly in young woman

• anti-seizure medicine for many years

• hyperthyroidism or hyperparathyroidism

• Cushing's syndrome

• kidney failure colitis

• stomach or intestinal surgery

• high intake of alcohol, coffee, tea or soft drinks

• heavy smoking

• low dietary intake of calcium

• European or Asian ancestry