As women age, their bones become more vulnerable to osteoporosis, a condition in which bones lose density and strength, increasing the risk of fractures. Osteoporosis often develops silently, without any noticeable symptoms until a bone breaks. This “silent disease” weakens bones, making them brittle and prone to fractures from minor falls or even routine activities like bending or coughing. This article highlights why bone density screening is vitally important and offers an update on osteoporosis treatments.
Osteoporosis Overview
Postmenopausal women are at heightened risk due to a drop in estrogen levels, which accelerates bone loss. Other risk factors include a family history of osteoporosis, smoking, low body weight, and certain medications, like steroids. Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, as well as a sedentary lifestyle, can also contribute to bone
deterioration.
Bone Density Tests
One in two women over age 50 will experience a bone fracture due to osteoporosis in her lifetime. Bone density tests, also known as DEXA or DXA scans, are the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis. This painless, noninvasive test measures bone mineral density (BMD). During this test, you lie on a table while a scanner passes over your body, using low-dose x-rays to measure the density of bones, usually in the hip and spine.
The results are expressed as a T-score. Osteoporosis is defined as a T-score of -2.5 or lower.
Why Screening Matters
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, women over 65 should have a bone density test, as should younger postmenopausal women with additional risk factors. “Identifying those at high risk of fracture with a DXA is akin to detecting elevated lipids before a heart attack or stroke,” says Alana Serota, MD, an osteoporosis expert at the Weill Cornell-affiliated Hospital for Special Surgery.
Early detection of low bone density enables timely interventions, such as lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medications, to slow bone loss or even rebuild bone. “We always want to treat osteoporosis before ‘end organ damage,’ which in the case of osteoporosis is a fracture,” says Dr. Serota. Simply put, it’s better to treat osteoporosis early, before it causes serious damage, like broken bones.
“Fractures can impact both quality and quantity of life,” says Dr. Serota. For example, hip fractures—a common result of untreated osteoporosis— can be life-altering. Recovery is often prolonged, and many women never regain their previous level of independence. Spinal fractures, another common complication, can lead to chronic pain and a noticeable loss of height due to vertebral compression.
Protect Your Bones
Here are some practical steps to support bone health:
Boost calcium and vitamin D: Aim for 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily through foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products, such as orange juice. Vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption, can be obtained from sunlight, fatty fish such as salmon, or supplements.
Stay active: Weight-bearing exercises like walking, dancing, and strength training help maintain bone density. Yoga and tai chi can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
Avoid bone-depleting habits: Limit alcohol intake, quit smoking, and avoid excessive caffeine, which can reduce calcium absorption.
Medications and Hormone Therapy
If you’re diagnosed with osteoporosis, discuss your risk factors and the need for medications with your doctor. “Available medications are very effective at maintaining or improving bone density and markedly decreasing the risk of fractures,” says Dr. Serota.
Currently available medications for osteoporosis include bisphosphonates, which slow bone loss and help prevent fractures; denosumab, a monoclonal antibody that reduces bone resorption and strengthens bones; selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), which help maintain bone density and prevent fractures; anabolic agents, which stimulate new bone formation; and calcitonin, which helps reduce bone pain and slows bone loss.
Take the First Step
A bone density test can provide valuable insight into your bone health and guide you toward a stronger future.
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