Bone mass measurement or bone density test is a medical procedure that determines the amount of mineral content in your bones to assess their strength and likelihood of fractures.

It is a non-invasive, painless, and relatively quick procedure that can help detect bone loss and diagnose osteoporosis, a condition characterized by brittle bones that are prone to fracture. In this article, we will talk about who needs bone mass measurement and why it is important.

1. Women Over 65 Years Old

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, women over 65 years old should get a bone density test to screen for osteoporosis.

This is because women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men due to hormonal changes during menopause that affect bone health. Additionally, aging reduces the body’s ability to absorb and retain calcium, which is an essential nutrient for bone health.

2. Men Over 70 Years Old

Although men are less likely to develop osteoporosis than women, they are still at risk, especially as they age. Men over 70 years old should get a bone density test to screen for osteoporosis and assess their risk of fractures.

3. Postmenopausal Women With Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Postmenopausal women who have one or more risk factors for osteoporosis should get a bone density test to assess their bone health.

Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis include a family history of the disease, a history of fractures, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and hyperthyroidism.

4. Menopausal Women Who Are Considering Hormone Therapy

Menopausal women who are considering hormone therapy should get a bone density test before starting the treatment to assess their bone health and establish a baseline measurement.

Hormone therapy can help prevent bone loss in women but can also increase the risk of certain types of cancer and blood clots. Therefore, a bone density test can help doctors determine the appropriate course of treatment for each patient based on their individual risk factors and medical history.

5. People Who Have Been on Long-Term Steroid Therapy

Long-term use of corticosteroid medications such as prednisone can cause bone loss and increase the risk of fractures.

Therefore, people who have been on long-term steroid therapy should get a bone density test to assess their bone health and monitor the effects of the medication on their bones.

Related Article When is it necessary to have a bone mass measurement?

6. People With Medical Conditions That Affect Bone Health

Some medical conditions can affect bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. These include celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and some types of cancer.

People with these conditions should get a bone density test to assess their bone health and monitor the effects of their condition on their bones.

7. People With a History of Fractures

People who have had a fracture, especially after a minor injury, should get a bone density test to assess their bone health and determine if they have osteoporosis or another underlying bone condition.

Fractures can be a sign of weakened bones, and early detection of osteoporosis can help prevent future fractures.

8. People Who Have Undergone Organ Transplantation

Organ transplant recipients are at an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures due to the use of immunosuppressive medications, which can cause bone loss.

Therefore, people who have undergone organ transplantation should get a bone density test to assess their bone health and monitor the effects of their medication on their bones.

9. People Who Are Planning to Start a New Medication

Some medications can cause bone loss and increase the risk of fractures, such as aromatase inhibitors used to treat breast cancer, some anticonvulsants used to treat seizures, and some medications used to treat prostate cancer.

Therefore, people who are planning to start a new medication should get a bone density test to assess their bone health and monitor the effects of the medication on their bones.

10. People Who Want to Monitor Their Bone Health

Finally, anyone who wants to monitor their bone health and assess their risk of osteoporosis and fractures can get a bone density test.

This is especially important for people who have a family history of osteoporosis or fractures, lead a sedentary lifestyle, have a history of falls, or have poor nutrition.