Get a Bone Density Test
A bone density test measures how strong your bones are. The test will tell you if you have osteoporosis (or weak bones), and it can help you understand your risk of breaking a bone in the future.
Women are at higher risk for osteoporosis than men, and the risk increases with age.
- If you’re a woman age 65 or older, schedule a bone density test
- If you’re a woman age 64 or younger and you have gone through menopause, ask your doctor if you need a bone density test
Men can get osteoporosis, too. If you’re a man over age 65 and you’re concerned about your bone strength, talk with your doctor or nurse.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease. It means your bones are weak and more likely to break. People with osteoporosis most often break bones in the hip, spine, and wrist.
There are no signs or symptoms of osteoporosis. You might not know you have the disease until you break a bone. That’s why it’s so important to get a bone density test to measure your bone strength.
What happens during a bone density test?
A bone density test is like an x-ray or scan of your body. The test doesn’t hurt, and you don’t need to do anything to prepare for it. It only takes about 15 minutes.
Am I at Risk?
Am I at risk for osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is most common in older women, but men can also get it. Your risk for osteoporosis increases as you get older.
Other things can increase your risk for osteoporosis, including:
- Hormone changes (especially for women who have gone through menopause)
- Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D
- Having certain diseases or taking certain medicines
- Smoking cigarettes or drinking too much alcohol
- Not getting enough physical activity
- Having a low body weight
- Having a parent who had osteoporosis or broke a bone
Check out these resources to learn more about osteoporosis and bone health:
Treatment Options
What if I have osteoporosis?
If you have osteoporosis, you can still slow down bone loss. Finding and treating the disease early can keep you healthier and more active — and help lower your risk of breaking bones.
Depending on the results of your bone density test, you may need to:
- Add more calcium and vitamin D to your diet
- Get more physical activity
- Take medicine to slow down bone loss and lower your chances of breaking a bone
Learn about medicines for osteoporosis.
Your doctor can tell you what steps are right for you. It doesn’t matter how old you are — it’s never too late to improve your bone health.
