Medical Update - December 2, 2004

In this Medical Update, why dentists may be able to help screen women for osteoporosis. Plus marking World Aids Day. <br/><br/>News on 6 anchor LeAnne Taylor says December 1st marks World AIDS day and

Thursday, December 2nd 2004, 10:36 am

By: News On 6

In this Medical Update, why dentists may be able to help screen women for osteoporosis. Plus marking World Aids Day.

News on 6 anchor LeAnne Taylor says December 1st marks World AIDS day and people around the globe recognized it in various ways.

China's president visited AIDS patients in the hospital. Brazil held a candlelight vigil to protest the lack of support patients receive in that country. One of the goals of the day this year was to raise awareness about women and girls living with AIDS.

Since September 11th, the government has given out some 10,000 hand held radiation detectors to law enforcement. Turns out some medical patients are triggering the devices. Various scans and treatments can leave behind radiation in the body for up to three months. So it's recommended having your doctor give you an official letter or card that shows the treatments you've undergone.

A trip to the dentist may include more than just a check of your teeth. Researchers believe dentists may be able to help screen women for osteoporosis.

A new study found panoramic dental X-rays could accurately show the first stages of low bone density. Doctors say detecting osteoporosis early great increases the chances of properly treating the disease.