Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?

Learn how you get tested for osteoporosis and get the care that you need

As many as 44 million Americans – 80 percent of women – have bone mineral density so low they’re at risk for crippling fractures, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Could you be one of them? The only way to find out is a bone density test. Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network offers two types of testing for bone loss:

Peripheral heel screening — a type of ultrasound offered by many pharmacies and doctors’ offices for about $30 without a prescription.
DEXA (dual x-ray absorptometry) — performed in an X-ray lab with equipment that scans the hip, femur and spine. DEXA costs about $120 and requires a doctor’s prescription. Radiation exposure is low—about the same as a cross-country airplane trip.

Make sure you discuss with your doctor whether you need a bone density test if you:

Are past menopause (or have had a hysterectomy)
Are thin and small-boned
Have a history of smoking cigarettes
Have been on steroid medications
Have lost more than an inch or two in height
Have a history of fractures (personally or in the family)
Have hyperthyroidism
Have had chemotherapy

To find a doctor or LVHHN health fair that offers osteoporosis screenings, call 610-402-CARE

This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM

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LVH Info Line: 610-402-CARE
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