QUESTION:
At what age should I get bone mineral density testing?
ANSWER:
Because every woman’s body is unique, the ideal situation is to have your bone density
tested with a DEXA scan between the ages of 25 and 30 to obtain a baseline, and
then compare that number to the measurement 20 to 30 years later. This practice
provides an accurate measurement of the change in bone density that you yourself
have experienced, not a figure comparing you to the “norm” set for a wide range
of women.
However, we realize most women are not inclined to have bone density scanning done
in their late 20’s and 30’s, and most insurance policies will not cover the cost
of screening bone density testing before age 65. The US Preventative Services Task
Force suggests having a density test if you are 65 or older, or at age 60 if you
are at increased risk for osteoporosis.
More questions on bone health