Aging contributes to the loss of bone density. This can cause weak, porous
bones and a disease called
osteoporosis, which increases your risk of fractures.
Many women believe they don’t need a bone density screening until
the age of 65. However, the latest case studies show that bone loss starts
far sooner than doctor’s once believed.
“We are finding a significant loss of bone density within a few years
of menopause,” says
Dr. Barbara Schulz. “In fact, we’ve found 15-20% bone loss in women after reaching
menopause.”
“We recommend starting bone density screenings as soon as you reach
menopause,” says Dr. Schulz. “Based on the severity of your
bone loss we’ll prescribe walking, weight-bearing exercise, supplements
or medication to improve bone density.”
Torrance Memorial’s Breast Diagnostic Center offers
bone density screening at it’s Torrance campus located at 3275 Skypark Drive, Torrance,
and at it’s Rolling Hills office located at 65 Peninsula Center,
Rolling Hills Estates, and coming soon in Manhattan Beach at 855 Manhattan
Beach Blvd.
Doctors encourage women to schedule their bone density screening at the
same time as a
mammogram. To make an appointment, call 310-517-4709.