What is a DEXA Scan Anyway?:

The third in the series of screening protocol updates

Women’s First Health CenterDrs. Sylvester, Youngren, Lo and Sansobrino

Created by Megan Blomeyer, St. George’s University, MS-IV

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become thin, brittle and weak. These changes lead to an increased risk of fractures, especially in women.

Bone is constantly broken down and reformed throughout life. Beginning at age 30, bone loss occurs quicker than it can be made. Although some bone loss is common in all women, too much can lead to osteoporosis.

What Changes Occur in the Bone Itself?

Image courtesy of The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Osteoporosis: Frequently Asked Questions. 2011 August. Web. 14 July 2013. <http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq048.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130714T1840083402>

In osteoporosis, the bone remains the same size, but becomes thinner and has larger holes in the spongy bone.

Factors That Increase Your Risk

Personal history of a broken bone or bones

Family history of osteoporosis

Caucasian race

Lack of exercise

Alcoholism

Ovarian removal

Poor nutrition and diet low in calcium

Menopause before age 45 years

Low body weight

History of falls

How Can You Decrease Your Risk of

Osteoporosis?Exercise builds mass and strengthens bone before menopause and slows bone loss after menopause.

Daily calcium in the form of yogurt, milk, nuts, cereal, seafood, leafy vegetables and juices is also important for osteoporosis risk reduction.

Screening for Osteoporosis

A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA scan of the lower spine and hip to test bone mineral density should be conducted at age 65 years to screen for osteoporosis.

Treatment Options

Various medications are available to treat osteoporosis.

Bisphosphonates are a category of drugs that help slow bone loss, while a selective estrogen receptor modulator such as raloxifene can help strengthen bone.

SummaryOsteoporosis is a disease of bone thinning and weakening leading to increased risk of fractures.

Daily calcium and exercise can decrease your risk of developing osteoporosis.

Screening begins at age 65 years and older with a bone mineral density test, also known as a DEXA scan.

Additional Information

Visit the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology website, www.acog.org, or ask your doctor for more information on osteoporosis.

ReferencesThe American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Osteoporosis: Frequently Asked Questions. 2011 August. Web. 14 July 2013. <http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq048.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130714T1840083402>.

• The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Osteoporosis Guidelines Issued: Bone Health Begins in Adolescence. 21 August 2012. Web. 25 June 2013. <http://www.acog.org/About%20ACOG/News%20Room/News%20Releases/2012/Osteoporosis%20Guidelines%20Issued.aspx>.