Bone Density Centers
Osteoporosis and Bone Density Screenings
Osteoporosis is a progressive disease of the skeleton caused by an imbalance in the body's bone-rebuilding cycle. Characterized by low bone mass, osteoporosis results in brittle bones that are prone to fracture. Osteoporosis is a concern for many women and occurs most frequently in post-menopausal women.
Experts predict the prevalence of osteoporosis will double by the year 2020, so early intervention and prevention are crucial. Once risk factors are identified, diet and exercise patterns can improve the chances of preventing or lessening the effects of osteoporosis. In addition, medicines are now available to treat the loss of bone mass and to prevent future injury.
To promote early detection and diagnosis, Baptist Health Imaging Centers offer the state-of-the-art Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). It is a simple, painless, non-invasive examination that reveals early loss of bone mass in women of any age. The new screening procedure measures density of bone structure in the spine, hip or wrist. It is safer than other methods of screening, emitting less radiation than one airplane flight. It requires less time (20-30 minutes) than other methods, and all at a lower cost.
A physician referral is required.
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