Osteoporosis is a silent disease. Most sufferers only find out they have osteoporosis after fracturing a bone and then having a scan. Bone Mineral Density develops through childhood and reaches a peak at around 35 years of age. For women bone density can rapidly decline after menopause.

These are some of the main risk factors associated with developing osteoporosis:

• An exposure to steroids (corticosteroids/asthma drugs)
  
• Early or surgically induced menopause
  
• A family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture in adulthood
  
• A history of cancer
  
• An eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa
  
• Prolonged inactivity, especially in the elderly
  
• Poor diet and/or been deficient in calcium
  
• Genetic factors
  
• Gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis and Coeliacs
  
• Thyroid / Parathyroid problems

According to NHS guidelines (National Institute of Clinical Excellence), Females with a diagnosed fracture should have a DXA scan if:

• They are between 65-75 years old
  
• They are below the age of 65 but have one or more risk factors
  

If you are not sure whether you need a scan ask your GP or contact us.