Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals more quickly than the body can replace them, leading to a loss of bone mineral density or weaker bones.

The most common sites of osteoporosis are the hip, lower back and the bones just above the wrist.

Osteoporosis is called the ‘silent disease’ because there are usually no signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs.

These fractures are common and place an enormous medical and personal burden on aging individuals and a major economic toll on the nation.

The good news is osteoporosis can be prevented through diagnosis and treated before any fracture occurs. Importantly, even after the first fracture has occurred, there are effective treatments to decrease the risk of further fractures.

Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) measurement of the hip and spine is the technology now used to establish or confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis, predict future fracture risk and monitor patients each year. Bone density testing is a vital component in the detection and management of osteoporosis.

Bone density is linked with bone strength and is an excellent predictor of future fracture risk. The quality of your bone density is important in your risk of fractures from falling, as a staggering 95 per cent of hip fractures result from falls.

You may see advertisements for body density tests in chemists and some shopping arcades called Heel Ultrasound. Your GP cannot use these results as a diagnostic test for osteoporosis as it is not the recommended test to measure bone mineral density nor is it covered by Medicare.

MeasureUp is now bringing DEXA for bone mineral density testing to your town on a regular basis. They will bulk bill this service for Medicare items determined by your doctor, which includes a free yearly scan for those over 70 years of age.

As such a referral from your local GP is required for this service.

We will be in Lightning Ridge from Tuesday January 31 to Thursday February 2 2012 and for appointments please call 1800 101 163.