Program offers osteoporosis tests

Free bone density testing, in hopes of improving treatment rates for osteoporosis, is being offered to women over 45 who have suffered a fracture.

The free yearlong Hawai'i Osteoporosis Foundation program is attempting to identify women with severely brittle bones and to offer them treatment.

According to Dr. Richard Wasnich, president of the foundation, recent Hawai'i and Mainland studies show most women with severe osteoporosis are not being treated for it.

While women with hip or wrist fractures receive care for the breaks, only 20 percent receive medications to prevent future breaks.

The Hawai'i program is supported by Longs Drug stores, Meadow Gold and Radiant Research-Honolulu. Call 441-6327 for an appointment.