For more information, contact:
Radiology Department
Field Memorial Community Hospital
(601) 645-5221 Extension: 320

New Technology at Field Memorial Community Hospital Helps in Fight Against Osteoporosis

(Centreville, MS) - Twenty-five million Americans have osteoporosis (most common bone disease).  Fifty thousand people die each year because of it.  Yet, most of us know little about protecting ourselves from this disease. 

Osteoporosis results in more than 1 million hip, spine, and wrist fractures annually.  This disorder affects nearly one-half of all post menopausal women, the largest group at high risk for osteoporosis.

Research in osteoporosis, the disorder in which progressive bone loss results in increased risk of fracture, is making important new advances.  A key factor in this success has been the availability of new and improved equipment to measure bone density.

Using a bone densitometer, physicians can measure patient bone density and follow it over time.  If the patient’s bone density is low, or decreases at an abnormally fast rate, the patient may be at risk for osteoporosis.  Through changes in diet, exercise habits and/or medication, further deterioration of bone can be prevented.  A new bone densitometer was recently installed at Field Memorial Community Hospital.

The Lunar bone densitometer (GE Healthcare) measures the density of the spine, hip, and other bones which are the most frequent sites of fracture,” explained Dr. Ricardo Nimo, Chief of Staff.

“In just 30 seconds, this highly precise densitometer helps us identify risk at a much earlier stage.  It can also evaluate response to treatment so that we know whether our therapy is effective or if we need to modify our approach.”

“Recent research findings clarify the nature of the disease and demonstrate the effectiveness of new treatments.  New diagnostic devices, such as the GE Healthcare Lunar bone densitometer improve the early detection and treatment of osteoporosis,” said Dr. Nimo.

Dr. Nimo encourages individuals to visit the facility and be evaluated for a bone density examination.  “There is no special preparation involved for the patient. The exam is very brief and is a comfortable procedure for the patient,” he said.

Further information regarding osteoporosis, risk factors, and bone density measurements may be obtained by contacting your primary health care provider.