May 28, 2009
MACOMB, IL — Western Illinois University employees can take advantage of an inexpensive way to check their bone density levels through two bone density screening events on the Macomb campus Wednesday, June 3. McDonough District Hospital (MDH) will provide WIU employees with the screening opportunities from 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the Sherman Hall Auditorium (third floor) and from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Stipes Hall, room 111, for a cost of $10 per employee.
Offered through Western Well, a health and wellness program at WIU that embodies WIU’s 2008-09 theme “Health and Wellness: Challenges and Responsibilities,” and provided through MDH’s Outreach Services, the screenings offer individuals a convenient way to participate in this important test.
“A bone density screening can test for early signs of osteoporosis, which is a condition characterized by the decrease in bone density,” explained Mark Kelley, chair of WIU’s health sciences department. “Bone density typically starts to decrease in individuals in their late 30s and early 40s and can lead to osteoporosis. Those who have osteoporosis are at greater risk for fractures, especially in the aged population.”
Kelley also noted the screening can help individuals determine if preventive measures need to be taken, and he added that women are particularly susceptible to loss of bone density due to hormonal changes during menopause.
For more information, contact WIU’s human resources department at (309) 298-1971.
Copy By: Teresa Koltzenburg
