May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month.Staff Photo of Radiology Department

BREWTON, AL -
May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. The staff at the Women's Center wants to remind everyone about the services available at the Women's Center and to let everyone know they have expanded. In March of this year, D.W. McMillan remodeled another area of their hospital and connected it to the existing Women's Center. Now, 3D Mammography, Ultrasound and Dexa Bone Density procedures are all in the same location.

"Our remodeled Women's Center offers a variety of imaging services in the same suite," stated Kathy McGill, D.W. McMillan Director of Radiology. "In addition to the cosmetic changes, we have added new equipment, updated equipment and have more availability of services for patients than before."

The Women's Center operates Monday through Friday, offering appointments for Dexa bone density scans, 3D Mammograms and ultra sound procedures. Patients wishing to get their checkup can simply get their primary care provider to order a scan.

Early detection for osteoporosis can identify treatable conditions. Approximately 10 million Americans, age 50 and above, have osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density, placing them at an increased risk for bone fractures. Most people are not aware that bone fractures related to osteoporosis are responsible for more hospitalizations than heart attacks, strokes, and breast cancer combined. But, regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises combined with regular checkups have been proven to build and maintain bone density for women and men.

The Women's Center at D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital reminds everyone that exercising and routine checkups for all ages is vital to help build strong, healthy bones for life.