Bone Density Measurement

Abstract

Objective: The availability of new, nonhormonal medications for osteoporosis treatment and increasing awareness of this disease on the part of physicians and consumers has led to more demand for bone density measurement. This survey of 312 women who had bone density measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was conducted to determine the characteristics of women being tested and the treatments that were implemented after testing. Design: Data were collected by questionnaires mailed to women who had a DEXA scan over a 6-month period at a teaching hospital in the Midwest. Results: Concerns related to decision-making about hormone replacement therapy, risk factors such as family history, and symptoms of osteoporosis were identified as factors that prompted women to have a bone density test. Physicians referring for DEXA tests included primary care providers (46%) and gynecologists (24%); a small number of tests were ordered by rheumatologists (15%), endocrinologists (4%), or other specialists (11%). Only 33% of those patients surveyed reported DEXA scan results in the normal range. Women who indicated low results reported implementation of medication therapy, more exercise, and dietary changes. Conclusions: Results of this survey indicate the usefulness of bone density measurement in directing medical management and lifestyle changes.