Your body needs vitamin D to build and maintain healthy bones because your body absorbs calcium best when vitamin D is present.
Vitamin D can be found in fortified milk and cereal, and fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. However, a major source of vitamin D is the result of direct sunlight, which helps your body make vitamin D. It converts a chemical in your skin into an active form of the vitamin (calciferol).
The time of day, season, latitude, and your skin pigmentation can affect the amount of vitamin D your skin produces. For example, in some parts of the world, vitamin D production can be very low during the winter months.
It is important to be aware of possible vitamin D deficiency because it can affect your bone health. This is especially true for older adults because:
The older you are, the more likely you are to have low bone mass, sometimes called osteopenia. Low bone mass can lead to osteoporosis – a disease which makes bones more porous and brittle, and can cause fractures, pain, and deformities.
The most accurate way to determine the density of your bones is to have a bone mineral densitometry (BMD) exam, also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or DEXA scan. A first (baseline) BMD exam is often taken at around age 50 and then subsequent exams may be recommended every two years.
A bone mineral densitometry exam is a low dose X-ray scan that measures the density of minerals (such as calcium) in your bones. It is used to help determine the strength of your bone and whether you are at risk of a bone fracture or if you have osteoporosis.
Low bone mass and osteoporosis rarely cause symptoms, which means you may not discover you have one of them until you sustain a painful fracture. This is why early detection is important, as well as being aware of your risks.
Women are at higher risk of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis due to having smaller or less dense bones than male bones. Their risk is also increased after menopause when bone loss is accelerated due to the rapid decline in estrogen levels. Because osteoporosis is more common in women than men, it is often thought of as a women’s disease. However, men frequently get osteoporosis. According to Osteoporosis Canada, one in five men will suffer from an osteopathic fracture and men who have a major fracture, such as hip fracture, are more likely to have complications than women.
Other risk factors for bone loss include having a diet low in calcium, an inactive lifestyle, smoking, certain diseases associated with malabsorption issues and hyperparathyroidism. Taking certain medications like glucocorticosteroids can cause bone loss as well.
Regular bone density testing is recommended to monitor bone loss. A BMD exam is not usually required until you are 50 years of age or older, unless you fall into a high-risk category. To determine if bone density testing is right for you, you will need to discuss your risk factors and family history with a health care practitioner.
A bone mineral densitometry exam sends a low-dose X-ray beam through the spine, hip, or forearm. Special computer software subtracts the soft tissue information and displays the bone density measurements. Generally, the higher the mineral content, the denser the bone is. The denser the bones are, the less likely they are to fracture.
During your BMD exam, you will need to avoid wearing clothes with buttons, metal buckles, and zippers near your spine and hip as they may interfere with the scan. You will be weighed and measured, then positioned on the table by the technologist. You will be asked to hold very still while the scanner moves over the area being examined. You may be scanned more than once.
Measurements must be very precise. Since measurements can vary between machines, repeat tests must be taken on the same machine or a new baseline will be created.
If you are age 50 or older, your bone mineral density test result will be a T-score. A T-score is the difference between your bone mineral density and the average bone mineral density of a healthy young adult.
If you are younger than 50, your bone mineral density test result will be a Z-score. The Z-score is the difference between your bone mineral density and the average bone mineral density for healthy people of your age and sex.
To determine if bone density testing is right for you, you will need to discuss your risk factors and family history with a health care practitioner, who would then provide a requisition for this procedure if it’s needed. You can then call to book an appointment with our Contact Centre, and they will explain how to prepare for your exam.
Please visit bone mineral densitometry services for more information about what happens during this exam and how to prepare.
Once your exam is completed, your images will be reviewed by a specialized radiologist who will compile a report that is sent to your doctor within two business days, sooner for urgent requests. Mayfair Diagnostics is owned and operated by over 50 specially trained radiologists, which allows for an expert review of your imaging by the applicably trained radiologist.
Your doctor will review your images and the report from the radiologist and discuss next steps with you, such as a treatment plan or the need for further diagnostic imaging or lab tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Mayfair Diagnostics has 13 locations across Calgary and one in Cochrane that offer bone mineral densitometry services.
REFERENCES
De Martinis, M., et al (2021) “Vitamin D Deficiency, Osteoporosis and Effect on Autoimmune Diseases and Hematopoiesis: A Review.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021 Aug; 22(16): 8855. Accessed February 21, 2024.
John Hopkins Medicine (2024) “Osteoporosis: What You Need to Know as You Age.” www.hopkinsmedicine.org. February 21, 2024.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (2023) “Bone Mineral Density Tests: What the Numbers Mean.” www.niams.nih.gov. February 21, 2024.
Mayo Clinic Staff (2023) “Vitamin D.” www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed February 21, 2024.
OrthoInfo (2021) “Healthy Bones at Every Age.” www.orthoinfo.aaos.org. February 21, 2024.
Osteoporosis Canada (2024) “Men and Osteoporosis.” www.osteoporosis.ca. February 21, 2024.
Osteoporosis Canada (2024) “Facts and Stats.” www.osteoporosis.ca. February 21, 2024.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
