The prevalence of osteoporosis in Mexican Americans is approximately 50% higher than in whites. Due to this increased prevalence, it is critical that this population is diagnosed and treated prior to experiencing life-changing fractures. Access to DXA screening and diagnosis are necessary to ensure treatment, which is inexpensive and effective. Increasing access to DXA scans by addressing the woefully inadequate reimbursement for the test will help address the bone health crisis that has affected this community disproportionately.

“During the pandemic, my mom fell and had a painful vertebral fracture requiring hospitalization and now rehab. COVID has really complicated the situation here in Connecticut and made the concept of nursing home care very scary. According to data from the State Department of Public Health, almost 70% of the state’s covid related deaths have occurred in nursing homes. Unfortunately, we had no option.” –Tricia, CT

As we celebrate the men in our lives this Father’s Day, please remind them to be attentive to their health, and especially their bone health. Many people don’t realize men get osteoporosis, too. One in four men over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. And men suffer more fatalities after a hip fracture than women do.