Bone density is a measurement of the amount of mineral content (primarily consisting of calcium and phosphorus) in your bones.
Bones containing more minerals are considered dense. They are stronger and are less likely to fracture. Bones that have less minerals, and are more porous, are classified as bones with low density and are prone to develop conditions such as osteoporosis and osteopenia. Both conditions cause bones to become weak and susceptible to fractures.
Our bone density usually increases until we reach our peak bone mass, which occurs around the ages of 25 to 30, and remains stable until we reach the age of 50. After the age of 50, adults typically experience a decline in their bone mineral density. People who are also more likely to experience bone loss include those who:
- Have certain health conditions such as chronic kidney disease and diabetes
- Are taking certain medications such as prednisone
- Have a decrease in estrogen due to menopause
- Have low testosterone levels
- Have a family history of osteoporosis
- Smoke
- Consume alcohol excessively
- Have poor nutrition: especially a diet lacking calcium and vitamin D
A bone density test can help doctors determine how much mineral you have in your bones, and if you are at risk for complications. The most common test is a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan. Test results will be reported as two scores: T-score and Z-score. A T-score shows how dense your bones are in comparison to those of a healthy young adult of the same sex, and a Z-score compares your bone density to those of someone your age, weight, sex, and ethnicity.
The Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation strongly recommends bone density testing for:
- Women aged 65 years and older
- Men aged 70 years and older
- Anyone who has broken a bone after the age of 50 years
- Women aged 50-64 years with risk factors
- Men aged 50-69 years with risk factors
If you are at risk for osteoporosis or health conditions that may develop due to bone loss, you must make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can order the appropriate tests and recommend lifestyle changes that can help protect the bone density you have left.
To schedule an appointment with an orthopedist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.