Osteoporosis causes bones to become fragile and more prone to breaking. People may not know they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump or fall can cause a fracture or a vertebra to collapse. A majority of the fractures occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. If not detected through a bone density scan and left untreated, osteoporosis can progress unnoticed until a bone breaks.

The bone density scan allows for the early detection of Osteoporosis and bone loss. With this knowledge numerous therapies (i.e. diet, dietary supplements, weight-bearing exercise, and medication) may be implemented to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

The Bone Density Scan is included in a Full Body Scan.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors: • Female • Thin, small frame • Advanced age • Family history • Early menopause • Low calcium diet

• Steroid use • Inactive lifestyle • Cigarette smoking • Excessive alcohol use • Caucasian or Asian

Statistics about Osteoperosis • One in two women and one in eight men over the age of 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime • Currently, in the United States, 18 million individuals have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis.