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Prevention

New Osteoporosis Screening Recommendations
  The US Preventive Taskforce released a new guideline on screening for osteoporosis screening. They recommend that all women age 65 or older (age 60 or more if they weigh less than 154 pounds and are not taking estrogen) be routinely screened for osteoporosis. The full report is in the Set 17 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Osteoporosis, a condition that occurs as bones thin or weaken with age, can cause pain, collapsed vertebrae, broken hips and other bones, deformities of the spine, and loss of height. About half of all women who live to be 85 will suffer an osteoporosis related fracture; 15% will suffer a hip fracture.

Age is the greatest risk factor for osteoporosis. Studies show that  12 to 28 percent of women age 65 already have osteoporosis. The Task Force found that dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), a noninvasive test, is the most accurate method for measuring bone density. Bone density of the heel (a simple screening method) can also be helpful. Medicare part B covers DEXA screening for women 65 and older once every two years if their doctors determine they are at risk.

Early treatment with approved medications can lower risk of fractures by 40-50%. Lifestyle changes and dietary changes can also be beneficial in reducing fractures and enhancing bone health.

 

 

Reference

US Preventive Services Task Force News Release, September 16, 2002


Making Healthy Choices articles are written by Don Hall, DrPH, CHES president of LifeLong Health with contributions from associated health professionals. Content is general health information from evidence based research. It's purpose is not to treat disease or take the place of advice by your doctor but to promote healthy lifestyles. Persons with health problems should contact their physician for specific guidance.

Copyrighted 2002 by PrevMedix LLC. All rights reserved. Do not make unauthorized copies.

Updated: 12/17/02