Bone Densitometry & the OSF Bone Health Program

Half of women over the age of 50 will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetimes, and more than 1.5 million bones weakened by osteoporosis break each year.

Characterized by low bone mass and the deterioration of bone tissue,osteoporosis can have a tremendous impact.  One woman rolled over in bed and fractured a vertebra; another, carrying a bag of groceries, broke two fingers.  Untreated, osteoporosis can cause disability, chronic pain and curvature of the spine.  In severe cases, it can interfere with breathing and intestinal function. 

               Changing these statistics is one of the goals of the OSF Saint Anthony Bone Health Program. All patients who receive a bone density evaluation using the advanced  technology at the OSF Women’s Center are offered the opportunity to meet with a certified clinical densitometrist and orthopedic clinical nurse specialist.  During the consultation, the specialist will discuss screening results, review your health history and assess your risks for osteoporosis.

You can also learn what helps make bones stronger, including nutrition, exercise, intake of calcium and vitamin D, lifestyle and available medications.  While most of us are aware of the most common osteoporosis risk factors--being thin, living an inactive lifestyle, having a history of anorexia or cigarette smoking and using alcoholic beverages excessively--we may not know other less known risk factors: breaking a bone after the age of 50; losing more than one and a half inch in height; having diabetes or celiac disease; using medications such as steroids, anticonvulsants and thyroid hormone long term; and taking aramatase inhibitors for breast cancer prevention.

    Regular bone densitometry screenings are a vital to detecting this "silent disease." Many women learn they have osteoporosis only after their bones are so weak that a sudden strain, bump or fall causes a fracture or a vertebra to collapse.          

              For the most thorough information and education, remember to ask your physician to order a bone density screening at the OSF Women’s Center. Your free consultation with our bone health expert is offered as part of the screening. 

              Call 815-227-2797 for more information.

• being female,
• thin and/or small frame,
• advanced age,
• a family history of the disease,
• postmenopausal, including early or surgically induced menopause,
• abnormal absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea),
• anorexia nervosa or bulimia,
• a diet low in calcium,
• use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants,
• an inactive lifestyle,
• cigarette smoking,
• excessive use of alcohol,
• and being Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at significant risk as well.
  
  (Source: National Osteoporosis Foundation)

To reduce your risk for developing osteoporosis:

• eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D,
• perform weight-bearing exercises such as walking,
• have your bone density tested,
• and use prescribed medication for osteoporosis when appropriate.