Order an onset of Osteoporosis (NTx) Screening Test

This screening test will measure the ratio of a two biological markers of bone loss & bone gain (NTx / Creatinine) that are found in urine.

• The higher the ratio, the more bone that you are losing and greater risk of developing Osteoporosis.

• The ratio is a good predictor of bone health and the onset of Osteoporosis over the next 12 months.

• Choose this test and be ready to take action if you are at risk of Osteoporosis.

Getting Tested

• Order the collection kit online and it will be sent to you by 1st class mail.

• Full instructions are included, but please do call for advice if required.

• This Osteoporosis test requires just a urine sample.

• A report will be posted to you direct from the lab within 10 working days.

Technical information about this Onset of Osteoporosis Test

Testing for Osteoporosis

While a bone density scan is the traditional way of diagnosing established osteoporosis, knowing who are ‘fast’ bone losers is key to preventative treatment and the NTx test is highly predictive for onset of osteoporosis.

Early warning of increased bone loss can be used as a reliable predictive marker and the NTx test can monitor the effectiveness of therapies used to slow bone loss and reduce the chance of developing the disease.

It is recommended that all women are tested to determine bone loss rate, to identify "fast bone losers". Osteoporosis prevention is most effective before rapid bone loss occurs, while women are still in the early phase of the menopause.

How does the test work?

The Osteoporosis Screen provides a measure of the excretion of N-telopeptide (NTx), a very specific marker of bone metabolism. Urinary levels of NTx correlate with the rate of bone loss and when there are increased amounts of NTx in the urine, there is an increased rate of bone destruction.

Your results

The report that you will receive will show your NTx / Creatinine ratio and is simple to understand. The higher the result, the more bone that you are losing and thus the greater likelihood of developing osteoporosis. The laboratory report also shows what the expected normal range is and what your result means in terms of risk to bone health for the next 12 months. This allows you to see if you are at risk of developing osteoporosis in the near future and so you can take corrective action in good time.

Prevention and Treatment

Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, you can optimize bone health and prevent the onset of osteoporosis or reduce further bone deterioration by:

• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D

• Taking weight –bearing exercise

• Following a healthy lifestyle with no smoking or excessive alcohol consumption

It is advisable to discuss your results, and any changes to your diet or lifestyle, with your GP.