Bone Health Program (Osteoporosis)

Osteoporosis can be a debilitating condition that robs you of your independence. The Kapi'olani Women's Center offers a comprehensive program to help detect, prevent and manage osteoporosis.

Find out where you stand – get a bone scan today.

  • Bone Density Scan. This scan is a quick and painless procedure. You simply lie still while the scanner passes over your body. In minutes, you'll know where you stand.
  • Preventative Treatment Plan - consultation with physician specializing in bone health.

    Osteoporosis specialist Frank Singer, M.D., leads the Bone Health Program. Once a bone scan is done, he can meet with women diagnosed or at risk for osteoporosis to develop a personalized treatment plan in coordination with the patient's physician.
  • Osteo-cise and structural strength classes – specifically designed for women at risk, focus on muscles that support the spine and hip, as well as balance and posture.

    Exercise physiologist Marcie Nowack helps women diagnosed or at risk for osteoporosis to safely build muscle strength and flexibility. Work to improve your posture, gait, balance, core strength, and reduce back pain. Six-week series.

The Bone Health Team

Assisting women in preventing and managing osteoporosis

Frank Singer, M.D. specializes in the treatment of osteoporosis and leads Kapi'olani's Bone Health Program. He received his medical degree from the University of the East Medical School. He completed his residency at Trenton Affiliated Hospitals and his fellowship at Beth Israel Medical Center. Dr. Singer helps women diagnosed or at risk for osteoporosis to develop a preventive treatment plan in coordination with their doctor.
Marcie Nowack is an exercise physiologist and helps women adopt a safe and effective fitness regimen to build strength and flexibility to reduce the risk of falls and to minimize the effects of osteoporosis.

For more information about our bone health program or an appointment, call (808) 535-7000.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is the thinning or weakening of your bones that begins in your mid to late thirties and accelerates after menopause. Left unchecked, your bones become porous and fragile and are more likely to break or fracture. However, osteoporosis is not inevitable and is very preventable.

How can I prevent Osteoporosis?

To be active and live independently into your 60s, 70s and beyond, you need to take action as early as possible.

  • Diet – daily requirement of calcium (1,000-1,200 mg) and Vitamin D (400 mg).
  • Exercise – weight-bearing exercises can stimulate your bones (walking, dancing, stair-climbing).
  • Testing – find out where you stand with a bone density scan and monitor regularly.

Who is at risk?

Women are at higher risk than men, while Caucasians and Asians, and small, thin women are at greatest risk. Other risk factors include:

  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Early or surgically induced (both ovaries removed) menopause before the age of 45
  • Post menopause
  • Smoking or drinking an excessive amount of alcohol

Young or Old, Pay Attention to Your Bones – A "Your Health Matters" article by Diana Huang, M.D.,OB/GYN

For more information about our bone health program or an appointment, call (808)535-7000.