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Have you had a recent Bone Density Exam? Many of our patients ask us if they need to have a Bone Density exam, what it shows and how frequently they should get one.

Bone Density Testing is a non-invasive exam that measures bone mass, which is the amount of bone tissue in the skeleton, to determine a person's risk for getting osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break. It is most commonly experienced by elderly individuals, but can be seen in young adults as well.

Through a simple test of the hip and spine, a bone density test produces accurate, reproducible results. It measures how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are present in a segment of bone. It compares your score with other people of your age, sex and other similar characteristics.

When a young adult does not achieve her ideal peak bone mass, she may develop osteoporosis at a much earlier age. It is therefore important to determine the baseline status of bone density in the perimenopausal period. If you have a normal baseline bone density, a follow-up exam one to two years after your last period (menopause) will determine if you are likely to become, or are, osteoporotic.

To learn more about Bone Density, click here.

When you call Breastnet for your next mammogram, be sure to ask our Front Desk Coordinator about Bone Density Testing. We can schedule both exams on the same day and, of course, a written report and explanation of the results at the time of the exam will be available.

Best regards,

Belinda Barclay-White, MD