Bone Health Center - Osteoporosis Prevention & Care
Baton Rouge General's Bone Health Center is the only clinic in the region dedicated to the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Led by Angela Roy, PA-C. Certified by the National Osteoporosis Foundation as a fracture liaison specialist, she helps patients reach and maintain optimal bone health to prevent fractures.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis, a term that means “porous bones”, is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle. This bone fragility causes an increased risk for fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.
Screening & Early Detection
Often called a “silent disease,” a person may not be aware they have osteoporosis until after they have fractured a bone. You cannot feel your bones getting weaker, that is why screening and early detection are so important.
At the Bone Health Center, we review a patient’s medical history, including any history of fractures, and provide a physical exam and bone density scan to determine their current bone health. A bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan, is a low dose x-ray scan used to help determine the presence of osteoporosis and the risk of fractures.
Who should have a bone density test?
- Women 65 years and older
- Men 70 years and older
- Anyone who has broken a bone after age 50
- Women 50-64 with risk factors
- Men 50-69 with risk factors
Am I at Risk for Osteoporosis?
One in two women and up to one in four men will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis. Risk factors for osteoporosis include:
- Family history
- A small body frame
- History of fractures
- Hormone levels
- Low calcium intake
- Steroid usage and certain medications including those used to treat cancer, seizures, and gastric reflux
- Lifestyle choices that include minimal exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use
