Bone mineral density scans in veterans.
OBJECTIVE
Recent findings suggest the prevalence of osteoporosis among men is under-recognized. The patient population of the Veterans Health Administration (VA) is predominantly male and many elderly veterans may be at risk of osteoporosis. Given the lack of data on male osteoporosis, we provide initial insight into diagnostic procedures for patients at one VA medical center.


METHODS
A review and descriptive analysis of patients undergoing radiological evaluation for osteoporosis at one VA medical center.


RESULTS
We identified 4,919 patients who had bone mineral density scans from 2001-2004. VA patients receiving bone mineral density scans were commonly white, male, over age 70 and taking medications with potential bone-loss side effects.


CONCLUSIONS
While further research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests that the VA screens the most vulnerable age groups in both genders. Heightened awareness among primary care providers of elderly male patients at risk of osteoporosis can lead to early intervention and improved management of this age-related condition.
VISN 8 Patient Safety Center of Inquiry, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. elizabeth.bass@med.va.gov
Elizabeth
E
Bass
Etienne
E
Pracht
Philip
P
Foulis
D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015519:Bone Density; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D014481:United States; D014493:United States Department of Veterans Affairs / Q000458:organization & administration*