Screenings determine your risk for 'silent disease'

Studies estimate more than 52 million U.S. men and women aged 50 or older suffer from osteoporosis and low bone mass. The majority may never know until they suffer a fracture from a minor fall, or in advanced cases from a sneeze or even spontaneously.

CoxHealth can help you determine your risk for osteoporosis at an osteoporosis screening, sponsored by The Women’s Center at CoxHealth Friday, Jan. 15. People found to be at an increased risk of osteoporosis can also get a bone density screening for the low fee of $25.

“Screenings for osteoporosis are important to prevention and early detection,” says Patti Roper, RN, CDT osteoporosis nurse educator. “For most people, osteoporosis is a preventable disease if they do the right things, such as getting the recommended daily amount of calcium, doing weight-bearing exercises and not smoking. For those who don’t get screened and take other preventative measures, osteoporosis can be a painful and life-changing disease.”

Screenings are for those ages 21 and older. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 269-LADY. Screenings will be held in Suite 110 of the Turner Center, 1000 E. Primrose.