WEST MILFORD — In order to help raise awareness and prevent problems that may result from osteoporosis, the West Milford Health Department and Chilton Medical Center are providing a low-cost osteoporosis screening for women. The screening will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the West Milford Municipal Building, 1480 Union Valley Road, in the Health Department office.
This quick and painless screening will assess the bone mineral density of the heel by using a clinical bone sonometer. Please note that the participant’s foot must be bare at the time of the screening. A Chilton health educator will also provide educational counseling and information at the screening. This screening is for women only.
It is estimated that 44 million Americans age 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone due to osteoporosis and low bone mass. Osteoporosis is known as the "silent disease" because there are no symptoms of bone loss until a fracture or break occurs. Osteoporosis commonly causes fractures of the spine, forearm and hip. While everyone loses bone mass with age, not everyone develops osteoporosis. Some common risk factors for osteoporosis are increased age, gender, family history, small/petite body size, smoker or previous smoker, excessive alcohol use, diet low in calcium and vitamin D, history of eating disorder, physical inactivity, and certain drug treatments. Both men and women can suffer from osteoporosis, but it affects women four times more often.
The cost of this screening program is $10 and is open to West Milford residents only. Payment will be taken in the form of cash or check made out to Atlantic Health System. This is not intended for those who already have osteoporosis. Pre-registration is required. To make an appointment, or for more information, contact the West Milford Health Department at 973-728-2725.