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Bone mineral density (BMD) gauges the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue, and doctors use it to determine bone quality. Genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle contribute to BMD. Eating a balanced diet rich in calciumand vitamin D and doing physical activity contribute to improving bone quality and reduce the risk of developing bone diseases.
The body establishes peak BMD by the time a person is in their mid- to late 20s, and it decreases naturally as people get older. If bones are not sufficiently strong during adult life, the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis increases. Osteoporosis reduces bone quality and increases the risk of fracture risk.
Vertebral fractures can have serious consequences, including loss of height and intense back pain. Bone loss has a serious impact on health and quality of life. In some cases, it can lead to long-term disability and death. Also, osteoporosis represents a socioeconomic burden, resulting in high medical costs and loss of work days.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), the condition causes almost 9 million fractures annually, worldwide.
Osteoporosis affects about 200 million women. Women tend to have thinner bones than men, and chances of developing the condition increase during menopause, when the hormone estrogen decreases. Despite its global impact, this condition remains underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Osteoporosis affects about 200 million women. Women tend to have thinner bones than men, and chances of developing the condition increase during menopause, when the hormone estrogen decreases. Despite its global impact, this condition remains underdiagnosed and undertreated.
One recent study found that data obtained from ultrasound scans were equal to those gathered using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Experts consider this to be one of the best methods to assess bone quality.
While DEXA remains an excellent option to gather comprehensive information on bone health, the equipment is expensive and many people cannot afford this procedure. DEXA uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to create pictures of spine and hips to measure bone loss.
Ultrasound could lead to increased screenings for osteoporosis.
While DEXA remains an excellent option to gather comprehensive information on bone health, the equipment is expensive and many people cannot afford this procedure. DEXA uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to create pictures of spine and hips to measure bone loss.
Ultrasound could lead to increased screenings for osteoporosis.
The machine works by measuring how sound waves move through the bone. It is portable, inexpensive, and involves no radiation. “Prior research,” explains Prof. Andrea Nazar, of West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, “has demonstrated strong correlations between education level and socioeconomic status and bone quality.”
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