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Dexa Scan

All articles tagged with #dexa scan

health11 days ago•3 min saved

Osteoporosis Is Not Inevitable: Experts Warn Against Delayed Bone Health Screening

Osteoporosis is a preventable 'silent disease' that often manifests only after a fracture. Experts emphasize that bone health is built early in life and can be maintained through weight-bearing exercise, adequate nutrition (calcium, vitamin D, protein), and early screening. While postmenopausal women face the highest risk due to estrogen loss, men and individuals with specific medical conditions or medications are also vulnerable. Delayed diagnosis and lifestyle factors like smoking and sedentary behavior significantly increase the risk of debilitating fractures, which carry high mortality rates.

via New York Post|

#bone-density #dexa-scan #fragility-fractures

health16 days ago•5 min saved

Experts urge women to seek bone density scans at menopause, not 65

Seven in ten American women will experience osteopenia or osteoporosis in their lifetime, yet many delay diagnosis until after a fracture. Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein of Duke University advises women to request DEXA scans around age 50, during the menopause transition, rather than waiting until 65. Early detection is critical because bone density loss accelerates sharply in the two years preceding menopause, potentially resulting in a 10% loss. While no standalone cure exists, proactive measures including strength training, specific micronutrient intake, and potentially hormone therapy can slow progression. Wittstein emphasizes that estrogen inhibits bone breakdown, making its decline a primary driver of bone weakness. Women are encouraged to view bone health as a lifelong priority, starting with early screening and lifestyle adjustments to prevent fractures and maintain mobility.

via CBS News|

#bone-density #dexa-scan #health

health1 month ago•16 min saved

Bone Density in Menopause: Timing Your First DEXA Scan

The New York Times health piece notes that menopause raises fracture risk, but most guidelines still recommend a first DEXA scan at age 65 unless you have osteoporosis risk factors; some doctors and influencers push for earlier screening. The decision should be personalized based on factors like prior fractures, family history, low BMI, steroid use, smoking, and other health conditions. DEXA is a low‑dose X‑ray that measures bone density and informs prevention or treatment decisions, including lifestyle changes or medications, made in consultation with a clinician.

via The New York Times|

#bone-density #dexa-scan #guidelines

health2 months ago•19 min saved

Protect Your Bones Now: Everyday Habits to Prevent Fractures

A Washington Post Well+Being article highlights how a simple fall can lead to a life-changing fracture, urging readers to get a bone-density check if at risk and adopt bone-healthy habits—weight-bearing exercise, adequate calcium and vitamin D, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, and reducing home fall risks—to lower fracture risk as you age.

via The Washington Post|

#aging #bone-density #dexa-scan