A blood test tells you if you have high cholesterol. A mammogram tells you if you have breast cancer. You have no problem taking those tests. So why aren't you having a bone density test to tell if you have osteoporosis?Just like those and countless other diagnostic tests, bone densitometry is medical sciences gift to disease prevention. Bone density testing helps your doctor diagnose osteoporosis or to see if you're at increased risk for a fracture.Common risk factors for osteoporosis include:Family history of osteoporosisSmoker, current or formerLow body weight, 124 lbs. & underMenopauseInsulin-dependent diabetesMedication use (Prednisone, inhaled steroids)Men with low testosteroneIf your bone density is found to be low, you and your doctor can decide on treatment. Bone density measurements can also help monitor the effects of treatment. Bone density tests are not the same as bone scans, which require an injection and are used to find cancer, infections and other bone diseases. A bone density test is an X-ray or CT scan of the bones. It is painless, noninvasive and easy.Who needs bone density testing?Women age 65 or older. Men and women 60 and older who are at increased risk of osteoporosis. A postmenopausal woman who has recently fractured a bone. A postmenopausal woman with other risk factors for osteoporosis. Ask your doctor if you should be taking advantage of this valuable screening. East Morgan County Hospital offers bone density screenings. Call 970-542-0360 to schedule yours today.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Scott Faulkner, M.D., board certified Internal Medicine. Dr. Faulkner is an internist with Fort Morgan Internal Medicine and may be reached at 970-542-0360. For more information visit Fort Morgan Internal Medicine on the web at: www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-FortMorganIM
