Bone density

A factsheet about when it is useful to have a bone density test and when it is not appropriate – and possibly harmful – to have these tests done.

Offers information about osteoporosis while looking critically at the evidence about it and at the pressure exerted on older women to prevent osteoporosis.

Suggests ways older Asian women can maintain healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis.

Argues that osteoporosis is not as widespread a disease as reported, and that most of what you could do to prevent osteoporosis later in life has nothing to do with getting a test or taking a drug.

Summarizes the findings of research on Depo-Provera's effect on bone density (2004).

Discusses the debate surrounding Depo-Provera's approval for contraception use in 1997 when women's groups had already highlighted it's impact on bone mineral density.

Evaluates the quality of the information content on bone-mineral density (BMD) testing posted on consumer health websites (CHWS). Finds that: the majority of CHWS identified by popular search engines do not disclose the limited capacity of BMD to discriminate between low-risk individuals and those who will suffer future fractures; CHWS generally present BMD testing as quick, painless, noninvasive, and as being recommended, based on risk factors that are widespread among the general public; BMD testing information is prominently paired on CHWS sites with information on osteoporosis, with an emphasis on "silent disease" and the devastating consequences of advanced disease; sponsors of CHWS sites are frequently either providers of BMD testing or companion drugs, and consequently in a position of conflict of interest with regard to decisions to undergo BMD testing; and, HTA organizations have no documented conflict of interest, nor do they invoke emotional arguments-their approach is to emphasize the effects of testing on populations, on the basis of referenced research findings. Concludes that: content analysis demonstrates the omissions and divergence of information on BMD testing available to consumers on the Internet, as compared with HTA reports; the content of HTA reports has undergone rigorous systematic and peer review-therefore, their findings may be useful to consumers; this information is not generally accessible to patients using the most popular Internet search engines; and, inaccurate and incomplete information may cause harm by deflecting patients from optimal decisions.

Explains the importance of bone density and the role sex hormones play in maintenance of development of it. Describes the negative impact hormonal contraceptives have upon bone density and methods to maintain healthy bone density.

Shows that resistance training was not as effective as weight-bearing activities in promoting bone growth or in slowing bone loss in women.

Explores the appropriate use of bone density measurement (BDM) in routing health care services. Examines the value and use of BDM and associated treatments, issues which have been covered in a number of health technology assessments and commentaries.