Determine if you're at risk for developing osteoporosis. Discuss these risks with your physician so that he or she can help you take the necessary steps now to avoid this debilitating disease later on.

Are you:

• Female
• Thin or have a small frame?
• 50 years or older
• Postmenopausal, including early or surgically-induced menopause
• A smoker
• Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at significant risk as well

Do you have:

• A family history of osteoporosis
• Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
• Anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• A diet low in calcium and Vitamin D
• An inactive lifestyle, especially in adolescence and young adulthood when bone strength and growth peaks
• Excessive use of alcohol

Do you take one or more of these medications:

• Glucocorticoids
• Excessive thyroid hormones
• Anticonvulsants
• Antacids containing aluminum
• Gonadotropin releasing hormones (GnRH), used for the treatment of endometriosis
• Methotrexate for cancer treatment
• Cyclosporine A, an immunosuppressive drug
• Heparin
• Cholestyramin, taken to control blood cholesterol levels

Knowing your risk factors and having a bone density scan is recommended for women 50 and older, or for women and men with the above risk factors. Medications are available today that actually build some bone mass, so early detection is key. If ordered by a physician, most insurance plans cover a DEXA scan. Medicare will cover a test every two years. For more information, or to schedule your bone density scan, please call Deaconess at 513.559.2500.