| Osteoporosis |
Osteoporosis Screening
Bone Mineral Density Testing
Bone Mineral Density Testing (BMD) measures the mineral density in your bones using a special X-ray. From this information, your doctor can estimate the strength of your bones.Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA is a type of bone mineral density testing. It uses two different X-ray beams to estimate bone density in your spine and hip. The amount of each X-ray beam that is blocked by bone and soft tissue are compared to each other. Bones with higher mineral density allow less of the X-ray beam to pass through them. DEXA is the most accurate method for measuring BMD because it can measure as little as two percent of bone loss per year. It is fast and uses very low doses of radiation.
Who should be tested?
- All women under 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis (besides menopause)
- All women 65 and over regardless of risk factor for osteoporosis
- Post-menopausal women with fractures
- Women who have been on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for prolonged periods.
DEXA Scan Locations
DEXA scans are available at the following locations:Allenmore Hospital Imaging Services
Phone: 253-459-6366
Auburn MultiCare Health Center Imaging Services
Phone: 253-876-8190
Covington MultiCare Clinic Bone Densitometry
Phone: 253-372-7240