Osteoporosis affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 12 men over 50. The death rate from fracture of the hip is approaching 25%.

Unfortunately many low trauma fractures are associated with a normal bone mineral density, so we are assessing quantitative ultrasound of the heel, which has recently been shown to be an effective tool to predict fracture risk in a series of 15,000 patients. (Reeve et al, The Lancet, 2004)

Ideally, screening should be done in women before or shortly after the menopause and in men over 60 years. It entails placing each heel in a small ultrasound machine which is painless and does not give out any radiation.

This technique effectively predicts fracture risk (as shown in a study published by "The Lancet" in a cohort of 14,000 patients), so that one can take preventative measures.  It is particularly suitable for menopausal or perimenopausal women but older men can also have this problem.

The charge is £47 (which also includes information).  Please telephone the surgery on 020 8421 3277 to make an appointment.