Osteoporosis and fracture risk

Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of bone tissue. This can happen as a result of age, hormonal changes, steroid or hormonal treatments and other medical conditions including some cancers. 

Fractures can occur as a result of osteoporosis. They can also occur as a direct result of cancer treatments such as radiotherapy.

If you have been treated at The Christie and you are at a higher risk of osteoporosis or fractures, you can be referred for a bone mineral density scan (DEXA scan). This is a scan to test how strong your bones are and is part of the endocrinology service at The Christie.