Are there preventive screenings to identify bone loss?
A bone density test can be done to screen for osteoporosis, which causes bones to become fragile and break easily, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
(HHS).
The test is recommended for women 65 or older. If you are younger than 65 and have risk factors of the disease, you should talk with your doctor about whether the test would be right for you, according to the HHS.
Some things your doctor might consider include:
- Age
- Alcohol use
- Family history of broken bones
- Height and weight
- Medicines you use
- Menopause
- Other disorders or diseases
- Smoking habit
Having this screening can help you be aware of your risk of osteoporosis and create a plan for how to prevent fractures, according to the HHS.
Talk with your doctor for more information about bone density testing and whether it is right for you.
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