BONE DENSITY TESTING COMING TO PINNAROO
|
|
|
Top level
Hospitals
Pinnaroo Hospital
Visiting Specialists
|
Mallee residents – especially females, post menopause – are being urged to make use of the RoyalAdelaideHospital’s Mobile Bone Density testing caravan when it visits Pinnaroo in May.
|
Chris Schultz, scientist in charge of Bone Densitometry at the RAH, said approximately two and a half per cent of the population have osteoporosis and the risk is higher the older you are.
“It is more likely to happen as you get older,” Mr Schultz said. “However, you can’t be certain by looking.”
The mobile service measures your density by x-ray and compares it to a reference population’s level.
“We measure how much bone and then with the doctor’s help work out the next step, whether it should be treated or to carry on regardless,” he said.
Osteoporosis occurs when bone is not being replaced at the same rate as it is lost and is a condition where bone strength is reduced to the point where, even with a minor fall, a break may occur. It commonly affects women after menopause but conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease and early menopause could also apply. Having female relatives with osteoporosis, a small skeletal frame, poor calcium absorption and taking some medications are also risk factors. Menopause is a risk factor because of the loss of oestrogen at this time.
Testing takes half an hour and you will need a doctor’s referral. Results will take 4-5 days and can be discussed with your referring GP.
Treatments range from conservative therapies such as exercise, adequate sunshine and maintaining calcium in your diet to hormone therapies or therapies which act to reduce bone loss.
The mobile service will be in Pinnaroo between May 15 and May 19. The purpose of the visit is to determine the risk of osteoporosis and assist doctors to manage and treat the condition. Please contact Mallee Health Service – Pinnaroo on 8577 9222 for more information.
|
|
 |
|
