Basics about Bone Mass Measurements
A bone mass measurement test looks at risks for broken bones. One reason people may be at risk for a broken bone is osteoporosis. This is a disease that can cause your bones to become weak. If your bone density is low, your risk for a fracture is higher.You are at increased risk for osteoporosis if you are 50 years or older, a woman, have a family history of broken bones, are white or Asian, are small-boned and low weight, weigh less than 127 pounds, smoke or drink a lot or eat a low-calcium diet.
What You Can Do
Talk with your doctor about when you should have a bone mass measurement test. Your doctor can discuss your bone mass measurement test results and work with you on choosing the best way to keep your bones healthy. A bone mass measurement test is ordered once every 24 months or more often if medically necessary.
