HOLX Hologic Inc

BEDFORD, Mass., Aug. 6, 2014 /CNW/ -- Hologic, Inc. today announced that Health Canada granted a medical device license for Horizon, a new DXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) imaging platform that assists in the assessment of three critical health problems - osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Horizon was launched in the U.S. and other international markets in 2013.

The Horizon DXA platform is designed to offer improved precision, stability and throughput over current products. New, clinically relevant built-in enhancements include a high-resolution multi-element detector array with ceramic detector technology for improved bone mapping and image quality; a high-frequency pulsing power supply that offers greater system stability and future flexibility; and a filter drum to support future development initiatives. Built on Hologic proprietary technologies, Horizon offers expanded technical capabilities, workflow efficiencies and improved design components to meet clinician needs now and into the future.

The Hologic Horizon DXA platform offers the following features:

• A Single Energy Femur Exam designed to allow clinicians to visualize potential atypical femur fractures, an unusual form of femur fracture which can occur as the result of bisphosphonate use 
• High Definition Instant Vertebral Assessment (IVA-HD) capability for significantly improved detection of vertebral fractures
• An Abdominal Aortic Calcification feature through Hologic's IVA-HD technology designed to enable clinicians to visualize abdominal aortic calcifications, a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease
• Advanced Body Composition assessment with visceral fat estimation to assist in the evaluation of metabolic health

"Since its introduction in 2013, Hologic's Horizon DXA platform has set a new standard for image quality and operational efficiency," said Peter J. Valenti III, Hologic Division President, Breast and Skeletal Health Solutions. "Horizon combines a wealth of proprietary, advanced technologies that provide clinicians with the most accurate diagnostic information available. Moving forward we remain committed to providing technologies that will differentiate Hologic from our competitors and help women and men throughout the world lead healthier, stronger lives."

The global impact of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and obesity-related problems is serious and costly. It is estimated one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetime.¹ Approximately 17 million people die from cardiovascular disease each year.² The incidence of obesity has increased 82% in the past 20 years³ and it is estimated that 2.8 million people die each year from complications related to this disease.⁴ Together, these health issues represent a significant cost to national healthcare systems and impact millions of lives.

About Hologic, Inc.:

Hologic, Inc. is a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of premium diagnostic products, medical imaging systems, and surgical products, with an emphasis on serving the healthcare needs of women. The Company operates four core business units focused on diagnostics, breast health, GYN surgical and skeletal health. With a comprehensive suite of technologies and a robust research and development program, Hologic is committed to improving lives. The Company is headquartered in Massachusetts. For more information, visit www.hologic.com.

Hologic, Advanced Body Composition, Horizon, Instant Vertebral Assessment, and associated logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Hologic, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. 

Forward-looking Statement Disclaimer:

This Media Release may contain forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties, including statements about the use of Hologic's Horizon platform. There can be no assurance the system will achieve the benefits described herein and that such benefits will be replicated in any particular manner with respect to an individual patient as the actual effect of the use of the system can only be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the particular circumstances and patient in question. Hologic expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements presented herein to reflect any change in expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based.

¹ Handout on Health: Osteoporosis, Riggs and Melton 1995
² World Health Organization (WHO). http://www.who.int/cardiovascular_diseases/resources/atlas/en/
³ The Lancet, Volume 380, Issue 9859, Pages 2053 - 2054, 15 December 2012 >doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(12)62133-3
⁴ World Health Organization (WHO). http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/obesity/facts/en/index1.html

SOURCE Hologic, Inc.