Anosteoporosisscreening involves a review of risk factors andbone density testing.
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How Common Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis affects women more than men.
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When performed at regular intervals, bone density tests can measure the rate at which you lose bone mass.
Benefits of Early Detection
A decreased bone density that has not progressed to osteoporosis is calledosteopenia.
Early detection of decreasing bone mass offers many benefits.
Most importantly, early treatment can help reverse bone loss before fractures occur.
Learn more:What you should probably Know About Osteopenia
Who Should Get a Bone Density Test?
There aren’t any early symptoms of osteoporosis.
Many people are unaware of this condition until they break a bone or notice changes in posture or height.
Bone fractures from osteoporosis can occur during simple events, such as bending over or sneezing.
Bone density tests are relatively short (around 30 minutes) and do not cause pain.
There is minimal preparation needed before a DEXA scan.
You’ll most likely be able to change into a gown or scrubs if needed.
While the scan is taking place, you’ll need to hold still.
In some cases, you might be asked to hold your breath briefly.
Results are most often reported using a number called the T-score.
Your T-score represents standard deviations or the amount your score deviates from the average.
The lower your T-score, the less bone mass you have.
A T-score of 0 means that your bone mass equals the norm.
Summary
Osteoporosis screening is important for the early detection of decreasing bone mass.
Screening is performed using a bone density testmost commonly with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA scan).
If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, talk to a healthcare provider about scheduling a bone density test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coverage for bone density testing varies by insurance company.
Contact your specific insurance carrier for more information.
Bone density tests are relatively quick (around 30 minutes) and painless.
The frequency of bone density testing will depend on your initial results.
People with osteoporosis or borderline results will often have to repeat these tests every one to two years.
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