Bone density has been the object of much publicity in the last decade. The loss of life style, interruption in activity, medical expense and disability from osteoporosis is greater than cancer of the uterus and cervix combined. Every post-menopausal woman must understand the need for a bone density test.
The test is done with a machine similar to an x-ray machine called a DEXA. The readings the DEXA give the doctor are on a scale which compares the patient to “young normal,” or, the bone density of a woman in her 20’s. A bone density reading of “0” means that the patient has the bones of a young normal. A reading of greater than 0, such as +.15, means the bones are better than young normal. A negative reading such as -.15 means the bones are worse than young normal. A reading of -1.5 is termed “osteopenia,” and -2.5 is “osteoporosis.”
Vitamin D is paramount in fighting osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Tags: bone density, osteopenia, osteoporosis, Vitamin D
