November marks Osteoporosis Month in Canada, a time dedicated to increasing public understanding of this often-silent and potentially debilitating condition. Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures, affects millions of people worldwide—especially older adults. One of the most effective ways to monitor and manage bone health is through a DEXA scan, or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, which provides critical insights into bone density. If you’ve been putting off a bone density test or aren’t sure whether you should get one, Osteoporosis Month is the perfect time to take action and get a DXA scan from Dexacan.
Osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone or fails to produce enough, causing bones to become brittle and prone to fractures. Often called a “silent disease,” it can progress slowly without symptoms, meaning significant bone loss may occur before pain or fractures are noticed.
Those at higher risk—such as postmenopausal women, older adults, people with a family history, or certain medical conditions—are more likely to experience serious fractures, often in the spine, hips, or wrists, which can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.
The good news is osteoporosis can be prevented and managed, especially with early detection. A bone density scan with DXA is a key tool in identifying bone loss early and guiding treatment.
A DXA scan is a non-invasive imaging test that measures bone mineral density (BMD). It uses a low dose of X-rays to scan the bones, typically in the spine, hip, and sometimes the forearm. This test provides a precise measurement of bone density and can help determine whether an individual has normal bone density, low bone mass (osteopenia), or osteoporosis.
The results are usually reported as a T-score, which compares the individual’s bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old adult. A T-score of -1.0 or higher is considered normal, while a score between -1.0 and -2.5 suggests osteopenia (low bone mass), and a score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis. For more detailed information on how to interpret your DEXA scan results, click here.
Osteoporosis Month is the ideal time to get a DXA scan and take charge of your bone health. Whether you’re at risk due to age, family history, lifestyle, or other factors, this simple, painless test can provide valuable insights into your bone density and overall health.
Don’t wait until a fracture occurs—schedule your DXA scan today with Dexacan and make bone health a priority this November. Book an appointment at our Kelowna clinic, and take charge of your bone health today.
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