BONE DENSITY

What is a Bone Density Scan?

This is a scan that measures the calcium content in the bones. The scan will measure your bone mineral density (BMD) and compare your measurements to a reference population based on your age, weight, sex and ethnic background.

Why it's important to know your T-score?

A bone density scan gives you a T-score that helps determine whether you're at risk for fractures. A T-score compares your bone density to the bone density of a healthy, young adult woman. A T-score of -2.5 or lower is defined as osteoporosis. The lower the score, the greater your fracture risk can be.

Do you know your T-score?

Factors that may increase a woman's risk for osteoporosis include:

Inactivity
Calcium deficient diet
Reduced estrogen levels (caused by removal of the ovaries and/or menopause)
Heredity
Smoking
Caffeine and alcohol consumption
Symptoms include:
Lower back pain
Gradual height loss
Rounded shoulders
Stooped posture
Bone fractures