What is the need for Bone Density Test?

A bone density test determines if you have osteoporosis - a diseases causing bones to become more fragile and more likely to get fracture or break. Previously, it was difficult to determine such conditions; they could only be discovered after you broke a bone. It is also referred as a bone mass measurement test. 

A bone density test enhances the accuracy of calculating your risk of breaking bones. It requires X-Rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. It estimates the quantity of bone in your hip, spine and sometimes other bones. Your test result will assist your physician make recommendations to help you protect your bones.

Doctors use bone density testing to:

·         Identify reductions in bone density before you break a bone

·         Verify your risk of broken bones (fractures)

·         Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis

·         Look for osteoporosis treatment

Despite of your sex or age, your health care physician may advise a bone density test if you've:

Ø  Lost height – Individuals who have lost at least 1.6 inches (4 cms) in height may have compression fractures in their spines, osteoporosis is the main cause of such conditions.
Fractured a bone – Fragility fractures appears when a bone becomes so fragile that it breaks easily than predicted. A Fragility fractures can sometimes even be caused due to a strong cough or sneeze.

Ø  Medication - Long-term consumption of steroid medications, namely, prednisone, interferes with the bone-rebuilding process — may lead to osteoporosis.

Ø  Received a transplant – Individuals who have received an organ or bone marrow transplant are at higher risk of osteoporosis, mainly due to the anti-rejection drugs interfere with the bone-rebuilding process.

Ø  Low hormone levels - The natural drop in hormones that appears after menopause, women's estrogen may also drop during certain cancer treatments. Some treatments for prostate cancer decrease testosterone levels in men. Low sex hormone levels weaken bone and lead to cause bone density.

What is the normal bone density?

o   Test Score      What your test score means

o   -1 and above   -    Your bone density is considered normal.

o   Between -1 and -2.5   -   Low Bone Density  (Osteopenia)

o   -2.5 and below     -     You have osteoporosis.

Bone density tests are easy, speedy and painless. Nearly no preparation is required. A bone density tests can be done at your local diagnostic center.

How often you must get a bone density test?

People taking an osteoporosis medicine should repeat their bone density test by one – two years. After starting a new osteoporosis medication, many healthcare providers will advise a bone density test every year.

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