Preventive Care for Osteoporosis
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, more than 28 million women are at risk of developing osteoporosis - a disease that causes bone tissue to lose calcium. In turn, bones may become weak and eventually break, most often in the spine, hip, arm and wrist. The results can be painful, even crippling.

That's why it's important that you get tested for osteoporosis. In fact, did you know...

• that the longer you live, the more likely you are to develop osteoporosis.*
• women are about four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.*
• osteoporosis causes more than 1.5 million fractures every year.*
• about one third of American women over age 65 will eventually have a spinal fracture due to fragile bone structure.*

* Provided by the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

When it comes to fighting osteoporosis, prevention is your best defense. By leading a healthy lifestyle and testing yourself regularly, you can go a long way to protect yourself against this debilitating disease.

The Good News About Bone Densitometry
At Providence Women's 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 (such as altering your eating habits) 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.

Once your results are in, we send them directly to your doctor's office. This information will be used by your doctor to 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 (915) 577-7777 to set an appointment at a SPHN facility nearest you. If you would like additional information, please call our Consumer Information Line at (915) 577-6000.

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
• Over 40
• Thin or small-framed
• Past or present smoker
• Menopausal or estrogen-deficient
• Anorexic or bulimic
• Malnourished
• On steroids
• On chronic anti-inflammatory or anti-seizure medication

Do you have:

• Bone disease
• Kidney disease
• Thyroid disease

If you answered "yes" to two or more factors, you may be at risk for osteoporosis. Consult your doctor or call the Sierra Providence Health Network Consumer Line at (915) 577-6000 to find out more about osteoporosis testing.