Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is a key tool in evaluating bone health and the risk of osteoporosis. It helps assess the strength of bones and the likelihood of fractures.
Osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and fragile, is a significant health concern, especially among older adults. Understanding who should undergo a BMD test and when can guide healthcare decisions and early intervention to prevent bone fractures and related complications.
What is Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Testing?
Bone mineral density testing measures the amount of mineral content in your bones. The test, often done through dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), provides a score indicating how dense your bones are compared to a healthy, young adult’s bone density. As a rule the lower the score, the higher the risk of bone fractures. A BMD test helps diagnose conditions like osteopenia (lower bone density) and osteoporosis.
Who Should Get a Bone Mineral Density Test?
1. Active Athletes and Individuals with High Physical Stress
Athletes who undergo high levels of physical stress, particularly in endurance sports like long-distance running or gymnastics, can experience bone density loss over time. Although athletes may have higher bone mass at their peak, prolonged stress on the body can lead to a decrease in bone density. Those at risk may need testing to ensure their bones remain strong.
2. Postmenopausal Women
Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk of osteoporosis due to a drop in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone density, and its decrease after menopause accelerates bone loss. Women aged 65 and older should get a BMD test. However, women under 65 may also need to get tested earlier if they have risk factors such as:
- Low body weight
- Family history of osteoporosis or fractures
- Early menopause (before age 45)
- Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- History of fractures or falls
Early testing can help catch osteoporosis early before serious bone damage occurs, early detection of osteoporosis is particularly important as it allows your doctor to begin treatment and avoid potential patient injuries such as bone fractures before they happen.
3. Men Over the age of 70
While osteoporosis is often associated with women, men are also at risk. Men over the age of 70 should get a BMD test, especially if they have risk factors. For men aged 50-69, testing may be recommended if they have other risk factors for bone loss, such as:
- Low testosterone levels
- Family history of osteoporosis or fractures
- Chronic diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
- Medications that affect bone health
- History of fractures or low trauma falls
Osteoporosis in men is often underdiagnosed, so regular screening can help prevent severe fractures and related complications.
4. People with a Family History of Osteoporosis
Family history plays a major role in bone health. If you have a parent or sibling who has had osteoporosis, you will be at higher risk of developing the condition later in life. For people with a higher risk of developing Osteoporosis its often a good idea to consider a BMD test, especially if you fall within the risk age range as well.
5. Individuals with Medical Conditions That Affect Bone Health
Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of bone loss and fractures. If you have any of the following conditions, you should consider getting a BMD test:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to bone thinning, making BMD testing crucial.
- Celiac disease: People with celiac disease may experience malabsorption of essential nutrients that support bone health, like calcium and vitamin D.
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid can lead to bone loss.
- Chronic kidney disease: Kidney disease can impact calcium and phosphate balance, which are essential for healthy bones.
If you have any of these conditions, discussing your bone health with your healthcare provider is important. On a final note, certain medicines can also cause osteoporosis one of these being steroid use over a prolonged period.
6. Post-Fracture Patients
If you’ve experienced a fracture, especially a low-trauma fracture (i.e., a fracture that occurred from a fall from standing height or less), a BMD test is often recommended. This is because these low trauma fractures can be an indication of underlying osteoporosis or other bone conditions. Identifying bone health issues after a fracture is essential for prevention and treatment.
7. Individuals with Low Body Weight or Poor Diet
Low body weight, especially when accompanied by a poor diet lacking in calcium and vitamin D, can increase the overall risk of bone loss. People who have eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, or those who have had bariatric surgery may have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and can benefit from a BMD test.
Take Charge of Your Bone Health with Bergman Ross
If you fall into any of the categories mentioned above, it’s important to prioritise your bone health. Early detection of bone density issues can help you take the necessary steps to prevent fractures and maintain strong bones. At Bergman Ross, our experienced radiologists provide accurate BMD testing to help you assess your bone health.