Bone density tests are test in which your doctor looks to see how strong your bones are. Usually, your doctor will take X-rays of your bones. Bone density tests also can be done with ultrasound or CT scans.
Bone density test purpose
A bone density test is a test that measures how much calcium and other minerals are in a sample of your bone. The test is also called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan.
From 2019 to 2021, overall osteoporosis prevalence increased from 18.6% to 22.2% among women and 17.8% to 22.9% among men, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Falling has been the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries requiring days away from work, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
It is recommended for all women over the age of 65 and for any woman who is considered at high risk for osteoporosis. This includes women with a family history of the condition, women who have undergone menopause, and women who have taken certain medications that can lead to bone loss.