AlexianConnects to hold osteoporosis screenings

On Sept. 10, AlexianConnects will conduct a free osteoporosis screening for women older than 35 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Dundee Township Public Library, 555 Barrington Ave., East Dundee.

The screening is by appointment only and will consist of an ultrasound scan of the ankle for bone density. Nurses from Alexian Brothers Health System will conduct the non-invasive test and results will be available after the scan.

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes thinning and weakening of normal bone. When this occurs, a patient with osteoporosis will have weaker bones and have a higher risk of bone fracture. Women are extremely vulnerable to osteoporosis.

At menopause, bone loss can range from 4 to 8 percent. A common consequence of osteoporosis is the collapsing of the bones in the spine, called compression fractures.

Yearly, 300,000 women suffer a hip fracture caused by the weakened bones of osteoporosis. While men are also at risk for developing osteoporosis, it is far more common in women.

For details or an appointment, call AlexianConnects at (866) 253-0426.

The screening, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the library's board room on the first floor.

The Dundee Township Public Library serves 54,000 residents of Carpentersville, East Dundee, West Dundee, Gilberts, Sleepy Hollow, and parts of Algonquin. Visit the Web site at www.dundeelibrary.info.