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Osteoporosis will affect around one in two women and one in five men, and is a condition which causes loss of bone mineral to a point where fractures can occur following a minor injury, such as a fall. Such fractures can be debilitating in later life and many people will have no symptoms before a fracture occurs.

What happens during the screen?

Bone densitometry is a specialised scanning procedure which measures bone density to detect early signs of osteoporosis. It involves a diagnostic scan of your spine and hips to identify any significant loss in bone density and enable preventative action to be taken to improve this and help prevent future fractures. The scan is painless and emits a negligible radiation dose (one tenth of that of a conventional x-ray).

Can I have an osteoporosis screen?

Unfortunately, the ageing process affects everyone's bone density to differing degrees. Bone density assessments should ideally take place around the age of 40 years to enable early detection. Risk factors can include a family history of osteoporosis, previous fracture, extreme exercise, heavy smoking/drinking, a sedentary lifestyle, anorexia or bulimia, a low calcium or vitamin D intake and early menopause.

How often can I have an osteoporosis screen?
After an initial scan, usually around age 40-45, a subsequent scan may be required after an interval of two to three years. In low-risk patients this is to provide a better overall view of lifetime risk and in high-risk patients to assess the effects of lifestyle changes and treatment.

How long will it take?

The scan is painless and takes about 20 minutes. A consultant radiologist with a specialist interest in bone disease will read your scan. The report and any recommendations will be sent to both you and your GP within 7-10 days of your visit. . If the report recommends further action, such as referral to a Consultant Rheumatologist or Gynaecologist, your GP will be able to arrange this with you.

What is the treatment for osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis does respond to treatment and it is possible to reduce the risk of fracture with appropriate treatment such as:

hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
medicines such as bisphosphonates or selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMS)
vitamin D and calcium (especially in the elderly)
lifestyle advice and measures to reduce falls, such as keeping fit and regular eye tests in old age.

I would like an osteoporosis screen
You may refer yourself for an osteoporosis screen without going through your GP. This screen can be booked individually as a stand alone health check or as part of a general health screen.

For more information or to book, please call 020 8936 1202.