Testing Bone Density
Have you had a bone density test within the last 2 years? The most common test for tracking bone density over time is the DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan. A DXA (sometimes pronounced "dexa") scan is fast, accurate, pain-free, and has very low radiation. A DXA scan provides your doctor with information about your postmenopausal osteoporosis management plan.
How can I know if my postmenopausal osteoporosis management plan is working? video.
- The results of a DXA scan are known as a "T-score."
- As the graph below shows, the lower your T-score, the weaker your bones and the greater your fracture risk can be.
- Talk to your doctor about your results.
- If you don't know your T-score, or you have never had a DXA scan, ask your doctor.
Why it's important to know your T-score.
A bone density scan gives you a T-score that helps determine whether you're at risk for fractures. A T-score compares your bone density to the bone density of a healthy, young adult woman. A T-score of -2.5 or lower is defined as osteoporosis. The lower the score, the greater your fracture risk can be.
Do you know your T-score?
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, women who are taking an osteoporosis medication should get a DXA scan every 2 years. (In some cases, a doctor may recommend more frequent testing.)
