You can request another whenever you like. Six years on from the last one and a possible familial, genetic link, might make now the perfect time, you may think. Can't hurt to ask, can it?
I had one 9 years ago when I was put on HRT (with consultants agreement) all clear than following last stroke (jan 12) I was took off HRT and they deceided to do scan again, this time came back with ostropenia in bottom of spine so on caluim tablets and another test in 2 years. So ask for another one because of family member my mum has ostreoposis.
I too was told this originally. However, if you also have Lupus and have taken steriods for many years, (in the old days no calcium as a protection for your bones was offered) as in my case, I now have a screen every year. However, that could be because I have advancing osteoporosis too.
Have you been on steroids such as prednisolone, these put us at risk,so a bone density scan should be done. It is a kind of x ray so not to be done willy nilly.
Every few years or depending if there has been any change in your condition.
Does anyone know if long term anticoagulants put us at risk as well, I have read it somewhere but can't find the source.
There is a very useful wikipedia entry on osteopororis, covers all the aspects, diagnosis, treatment etc
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