Know the Basics
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by a loss of bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. It is a silent disease by which a patient may suffer fractures after a minimal trauma, such as a fall. These fractures are common and may result in significant incapacitation or even death.
Osteopenia is a condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal and is considered by many healthcare providers to be a precursor to osteoporosis.
However, not every person diagnosed with osteopenia will develop osteoporosis. Fortunately, both osteoporosis and osteopenia can be diagnosed and treated before any fractures occur.
Dig a Little Deeper
Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. This is due to a lower level of bone tissue in women versus men. After menopause, women begin to lose bone mass more quickly as their estrogen levels decline. An estimated 1 in 2 women will experience an osteoporotic fracture in her lifetime.
Who Should Get Screened?
The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends screening DEXA scans every two years for persons in the following groups:
- Women 65 years and older
- Women of menopausal age with risk factors for osteoporosis
- Post-menopausal women under age 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis
- People who have had a broken bone after age 50
- Men 70 years and older
- Men 60-69 years of age with risk factors for osteoporosis
