When it comes to bone health, the go-to test is often the DXA scan (also called DEXA or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). It’s been the gold standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD)—but it’s not the only tool available, and it’s not appropriate for everyone at every stage. It is covered by insurance in most cases. We urge consultation.
Reasons for Getting a Bone Density Test
- If you are a women Over the Age of 65, or a male over the age of 70 has always been the time to get your check. But the earlier intervention the better, and those with risk factors miss years of prevention if they wait this long. The decrease bone mass in the spine and the hip begin years before this.
2. If you have low weight and are menopausal. Women With Low Body Weight are the most risk.
3. Menopausal Women With Disease, Condition, or Medication With Bone Loss Risk. Menopausal transition causes you to lose 10% of your bone mass. Just menopause damages the quality of the bone as well as increasing the amount of bone lost. So long term fracture risk is set up.
4. If you have been dieting with a GLP1 Medication, especially if you have lost muscle mass. Semaglutide has less bone loss than other GLP-1s.
5. If you have a parent who has had a Hip fracture, or if you have had a fragility fracture
6. Men under the age of 70 with Disease, Condition, or Medication with Bone Loss Risk
7. To Consider medication for bone health, especially if you consume alcohol regularly, or smoke
8. To monitor bone health treatment, even if you are ‘only’ getting a hormone treatment
9. Adults with a history of fracture, especially one listed as a fragility fracture
10. Women during perimenopause to monitor rate of bone loss
