Bone Density Testing Can Screen For Osteoporosis

According to Dr. Morris Gagliardi, a board-certified OB/GYN at SOCH, women over 65 should be tested for the early signs of osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to become brittle and weak enough to cause wrist or hip fractures, or compression fractures in the spine.

He also recommends that women who are at increased risk for the disease should consider being tested at age 50. “Women who are thin and small bones, who have a personal or family history of fractures as well as women who smoke, drink, use certain medications, or do not consume enough calcium may be at increased risk for developing osteoporosis,” said Dr. Gagliardi.

Women can be screened for osteoporosis through a painless, non-invasive test called bone densitometry, which is available at Southern Ocean County Hospital’s Women’s Imaging Center.

This test uses small amounts of radiation to determine the bone density of the spine, hip or wrist. “Normal x-rays are not sensitive enough to detect bone loss until at least 30% of bone mass has been lost,” explained Dr. Gagliardi. “The results are compared with the average bone density of healthy young adults who are at the peak of their bone mass. If osteoporosis is diagnosed, then I determine what lifestyle changes or treatment measures should be taken.”

The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chance for successful treatment. To schedule an appointment for a bone densitometry test, call SOCHConnect at 609-978-3400.

Date posted: 06/28/07 @ 2:37 pm

Current News • News Archives