Free Screenings During National Osteoporosis Month

Osteoporosis affects 60 percent of adults over the age of 50. Every year 2 million bones are broken because of it. This disease, which makes bones weak, is debilitating and affects far too many people to be ignored.

That is why Penn Highlands Elk is observing National Osteoporosis Month by offering free bone density screenings. On May 11, 12 and 13, the hospital’s imaging department will have a technician in the lobby from 1 – 5 p.m. On May 14 and 15, screenings will be done between 6 and 10 a.m. in the lobby. The heel dexa screening is an initial assessment that can be effective in signaling osteoporosis. If a person’s score is poor, he or she will be advised to see a physician for more thorough testing.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends screenings for those who are older, who have a family history of osteoporosis and for those who have small frames. They also offer five steps to bone health.

1. Get the calcium and vitamin D you need.

2. Do regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.

3. Don’t smoke or drink too much alcohol.

4. Talk to your physician about a bone mineral density test.

5. Take osteoporosis medication when needed.

For more information about the screenings at Penn Highlands Elk, please call the imaging department at (814) 788-8791.