Durant, OK – April 15, 2010-   Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans. At six months after a hip fracture, only 15 percent of hip fracture patients can walk across a room unaided.  Yet, most of us know little about protecting ourselves from this disease.

Osteoporosis results in more than 1 million hip, spine, and wrist fractures annually.  This disorder affects nearly one-half of all post menopausal women, the largest group at high risk for osteoporosis.

Research in osteoporosis, the disorder in which progressive bone loss results in increased risk of fracture, is making important new advances.  A key factor in this success has been the availability of new and improved equipment to measure bone density.

Using a bone densitometer, physicians can measure patient bone density and follow it over time.  If the patient’s bone density is low, or decreases at an abnormally fast rate, the patient may be at risk for osteoporosis.  Through changes in diet, exercise habits and/or medication, further deterioration of bone can be prevented.  A new bone densitometer was recently installed at Medical Center of Southeastern Oklahoma. 

“The Lunar bone densitometer (GE Healthcare, Madison, Wisconsin) measures the density of the spine, hip, and forearm, which are the most frequent sites of fracture,” explained Michelle Miller, Director of Diagnostic Imaging. 

“In just 30 seconds, this highly precise densitometer helps us to identify osteoporosis risk.  It can also aid in determining the effects of osteoporosis treatment.”

“Recent research findings clarify the nature of the disease and demonstrate the effectiveness of new treatments.  New diagnostic devices, such as the GE Healthcare Lunar bone densitometer, assist in the early detection and treatment of osteoporosis. There is no special preparation involved for the patient. The exam is very brief and is a comfortable procedure for the patient.”

MCSO encourages individuals to be evaluated for a bone density examination.   
For more information call 580-931-2079.  

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