When you book your mammogram, you’re taking a vital step for your health. However, your visit to a women’s health centre is also the ideal opportunity to screen for a condition that often goes unnoticed: osteoporosis.
Breast health and bone health are closely linked, particularly for women approaching menopause.
Oestrogen plays a major role in maintaining bone density. It regulates the natural cycle of breaking down and rebuilding bone. During menopause, oestrogen levels fall, which accelerates bone loss and increases the risk of fractures.
Because this hormonal shift coincides with the age when regular mammograms become essential, it makes medical sense to monitor both simultaneously.
The Benefits of a Double Screening
For most women, age 40 marks the start of regular screening for both breast and bone health. Scheduling them together offers three clear benefits:
Convenience
You are already at a specialist facility like Well Women Bone & Breast Care. By combining appointments, you save travel time and eliminate the hassle of booking a second visit later in the year.
Early Detection
Both conditions are largely symptomless in early stages. A mammogram detects changes before they can be felt, while a DEXA scan identifies low bone mass (osteopenia) before a fracture occurs.
Understanding the DEXA Scan
A DEXA scan is the gold standard for bone health. It is a quick, non-invasive procedure that uses very low-dose X-rays to measure density in your hips and spine. The results help your doctor understand your fracture risk and decide if you need preventative care.
When you schedule your next mammogram, ask to add a bone density screen. It is a simple way to ensure you are protecting your total well-being.