Osteoporosis is a disease where bones become fragile and are more likely to break. While men can develop Osteoporosis, it is a disease that is more prevalent in women. In women ages 50 to 59, 40 percent have low bone mass (Osteopenia) and 10 percent have Osteoporosis. In women above age 80, those numbers significantly increase and 90 percent have low bone mass (Osteopenia) and 60 percent have Osteoporosis.
Fortunately, there is a technology that can be used to evaluate bone density ideally before a fracture occurs. Bone density testing is performed by using a DXA scan, which is a diagnostic tool that evaluates bone loss by measuring the bone mineral content and density at specific bone sites, mainly the hip and the spine. Over time, an individual’s studies are compared to track bone loss as well as the effects of any treatments.
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