Screening for Osteoporosis at Kootenai Outpatient Imaging - Feature 0512
Osteoporosis is defined as the loss of bone mass and the structural
deterioration of bone. As a result of osteoporosis, bone weakens
leading to increased susceptibility to fractures, especially in the
weight-bearing bones of the spine and hips.
According to the National
Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), 10 million Americans (8 million women
and 2 million men) have osteoporosis, and 34 million more have
osteopenia, or low bone mass. Individuals with osteopenia are at
increased risk of developing osteoporosis. There are multiple risk
factors for osteoporosis, including: Advanced age, female gender,
family history, diagnosed osteopenia, certain chronic medical
conditions and therapies, estrogen deficiency, low calcium intake,
and lifestyle factors.
Osteoporosis is responsible for 1.5
million fractures annually. Almost half are vertebral fractures,
and about one-fifth are hip fractures. In 2002, NOF estimates the
cost of treating osteoporotic hip fractures was $18 billion.
There are no symptoms of the onset
of bone loss. Osteoporosis is clinically silent until weakened
bones fracture, which may occur with or without trauma. Hence,
prevention of bone loss is of paramount importance. The steps
individuals can take to optimize bone health include calcium and
vitamin D in the diet, weight bearing exercise, avoidance of smoking
and excessive alcohol, and medication when appropriate.
Screening and detection of
osteoporosis is easily accomplished through bone mineral density
testing (DEXA). This painless, quick examination is reimbursed by
Medicare and insurance companies. The test uses a trivial dose of
radiation to assess the density of bone mineral, and then compares
the measured density to normal standard values. At Kootenai Outpatient Imaging, our state-of-the-art Hologic DEXA unit is also
capable of vertebral body assessment, documenting the existence and
severity of any existing vertebral body compression fractures. The
report is available to the ordering physician within one day using
the new Stentor radiology information system.
There has been a five fold increase
in office visits related to osteoporosis in the last ten years.
Hologic DEXA at Kootenai Outpatient Imaging is the most complete,
accurate, and Safest method of assessment of osteoporosis and
osteopenia available today.
Based in Coeur d’Alene since 1984,
Radiology Associates of North Idaho is a group of 12 board certified
imaging specialists working closely with primary care physicians
throughout the area. We are committed to providing world class
imaging on an individual basis. For further information, log on to
www.cdaradiology.com.
Author
Arne Michalson, MD
Staff Radiologist, Kootenai Medical Center
Director, Nuclear Medicine and PET
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