Osteoporosis is a disorder characterized by decreased bone strength, either due to bone loss or due to sub-optimal bone growth in childhood/adolescence. In the United States today, 10 million individuals already have osteoporosis, and 18 million more have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for this disorder.

At MCAI, bone density testing is performed using a table DEXA unit, allowing for measurement of the spine and both hips. These values are obtained along with a risk factor profile, allowing for optimal evaluation of overall fracture risk.

DEXA is also useful for monitoring response to different drug therapies, since changes will be detected in the spine earlier than can be measured with peripheral hand/heel devices.

Table DEXA is very easy, and requires only 15 minutes to complete. Family physicians and obstetricians often order this exam as part of annual health maintenance. The study is also offered as part of MCAI's Wellness Screening Program so that it can be made available to all patients over 35 at a reasonable rate.

Risk Factors

• Low body weight/Small frame
• Tobacco use
• Increasing age
• Post-menopausal status
• Low dietary calcium intake, particularly in adolescence
• Lack of regular weight bearing/anti-gravity exercise
• Steroid use
• Anti-seizure medications
• Eating disorders