As we age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases. This condition causes bones to become weak and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. While women are more likely to develop osteoporosis, it also affects men.

A bone density test is a simple procedure that can measure the strength of your bones and determine if you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing it. So, who needs a bone density test, and when is the right time to have one?.

What is a bone density test?

A bone density test, also called a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, is a non-invasive test that measures the density of your bones. This test allows doctors to identify weakened bones and diagnose osteoporosis before a fracture occurs.

During the test, you will lie on a table, and a machine will scan your bones, usually in your hip, spine, and wrist. The results will show your bone density score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old adult.

Who should get a bone density test?

Doctors recommend that women over the age of 65 should have a bone density test. However, women who have gone through menopause and have risk factors for osteoporosis should have the test earlier.

Men over the age of 70 should also have a bone density test because they are at greater risk of osteoporosis as they age.

If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend a bone density test. Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis include:.

A family history of osteoporosis
Low body weight or a small frame
Lack of physical activity
Smoking
Chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or kidney disease
Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids or anticonvulsants

When is the right time for a bone density test?

The right time for a bone density test depends on your age and risk factors for osteoporosis. As mentioned earlier, women over the age of 65 and men over the age of 70 should have a bone density test.

However, if you have risk factors for osteoporosis, you may need to have the test earlier.

If you are going through menopause, it is also a good time to have a bone density test. During menopause, women lose bone density quickly due to a decrease in estrogen levels.

By having a bone density test at this time, your doctor can evaluate your bone health and recommend interventions, if necessary.

If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend repeat bone density tests to monitor the condition and ensure that your treatment plan is working effectively.

How often should you get a bone density test?

The frequency of bone density tests depends on your risk of developing osteoporosis.

If you have osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend repeat bone density tests every 1 to 2 years to monitor your bone health and ensure that your treatment plan is working effectively. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis but do not have a diagnosis, your doctor may recommend a repeat bone density test in 5 years.

How to prepare for a bone density test?

Before you have a bone density test, your doctor may advise you to avoid taking calcium supplements or multivitamins that contain calcium for 24 hours before the test. This is because calcium can interfere with the results of the test.

You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, without metal zippers or buttons, for your test. It is also recommended that you avoid wearing jewelry or other metal objects during the test.

Conclusion

A bone density test is a simple and painless procedure that can evaluate the strength of your bones and identify osteoporosis before a fracture occurs.

Women over the age of 65 and men over the age of 70 should have a bone density test, and if you have risk factors for osteoporosis, you may need to have the test earlier. Speak with your doctor if you have concerns about your bone health, and they can recommend if a bone density test is right for you.