Bone Density Risk Assessment

Postmenopausal women face the highest risk because estrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone density, and its decline at menopause accelerates bone loss by up to 3-5% per year in the first 5 years. Other high-risk groups include men over 70, people with low body weight, individuals on long-term corticosteroids, those with a family history of hip fracture, and people with conditions that impair calcium absorption such as celiac disease.

A DEXA scan is a painless, low-radiation imaging test that takes 10 to 20 minutes. You lie still on a padded table while the scanner measures bone density at the hip and spine. No injection or preparation is required, though you should avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan. Results are reported as T-scores and Z-scores along with a written interpretation.

Bone density loss can be slowed or partially reversed with treatment. Bisphosphonates typically increase spine BMD by 3-8% and hip BMD by 1-3% over 3 years. Anabolic agents like teriparatide produce larger gains - up to 9-13% at the spine - but are reserved for severe cases. Lifestyle measures (calcium, vitamin D, exercise) are essential in all cases as a foundation for either prevention or treatment.

Yes, particularly weight-bearing and resistance exercise, which apply mechanical stress to bones and stimulate bone-forming cells (osteoblasts). Walking, jogging, hiking, dancing, and strength training all contribute. High-impact activities provide the strongest stimulus but may not be appropriate for those already diagnosed with osteoporosis. Swimming and cycling, while excellent for cardiovascular fitness, provide minimal bone stimulus because they are non-weight-bearing.