Regular exercise and good nutrition can help you live a long, healthy life. But if you’re not paying attention to your bones, life could be very uncomfortable. Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, is a major threat for 28 million Americans.

Bone is living, growing tissue. Throughout life, old bone is removed (called resorption) and new bone is added to the skeleton (called formation). During the childhood and teenage years, new bone is added faster than old bone is removed - making bones heavier, larger and denser. Most people reach peak bone mass during their mid-20s. And after the age of 30, the removal of old bone begins to exceed the formation of new bone.

The Good News About Bone Densitometry
At Cypress Fairbanks Women's Imaging Center, we offer Bone Densitometry - a simple test which measures your bone mass and bone loss. It may be the easiest medical examination you will ever have to undergo. There is no special preparation required, and the results provide your doctor with valuable information that may prove helpful in the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.

How Bone Densitometry Works
For most scans, you stay fully clothed. It is also recommended that you wear loose-fitting clothes during the exam and that you avoid wearing metal zippers, buckles or large buttons. You will be asked to lay back on the exam table while the scanner runs over your body. During the exam, lie still, breathe normally and above all, rest comfortably. The bone densitometer uses only a minimal level of x-ray exposure to scan your bone tissue. On average, the actual exam lasts about 14 to 20 minutes.

What the Exam Will Determine
The bone densitometer will measure your bone mineral density (BMD) and compare certain factors to a reference population based on your age, weight, sex and other criteria. Your results will be sent directly to your doctor's office where your doctor will determine your bone status and fracture risk.  

How to Get Tested for Osteoporosis
To get tested for osteoporosis, please ask your doctor for a referral. Then call the Central Scheduling Office at (281) 897-3121 to set an appointment.  

Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?
Certain people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. Find out if you may be at risk by reviewing the following factors.  

Are you:

• Female
• Have a family history of osteoporosis
• Postmenopausal, including early or surgically induced menopause
• Thin or small-framed
• A past or present smoker
• Anorexic or bulimic
• Eating a diet low in calcium
• Not active

If you answered "yes" to two or more factors, you may be at risk for osteoporosis. Consult your doctor to find out more about osteoporosis testing.

Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for Women
Take this online tool to assess your risk for developing this disease.

To find a physician near you, call our complimentary physician referral service at 1-800-681-2733 or click here.