Bone Density is What?
Osteoporosis is the progressive loss of bone density. It is often called the 'silent killer' because the condition can often go undetected until it is severe and fractures begin to occur.

Sadly, if undetected, the degree of bone loss can leave a person disabled and in a great deal of pain. Because it is not a subject that many people think about on a daily basis, this 'silent thief' can steal much of the calcium and mineral strength from our bones without our knowing it.

A bone mineral density (BMD) test will tell you and your doctor whether you have low bone mass or osteoporosis. Compared to many tests women take, a BMD test is simple! Most of the time, you won’t even have to undress. And the test is usually over in a matter of minutes.

Who Should Get Tested?

The National Osteoporosis Foundation offers the following recommendations for those who should receive a BMD test: All women over age 65* All postmenopausal women under age 65 with other risk factors (besides menopause) Postmenopausal women with fractures Women who are considering therapy for osteoporosis, if a BMD test would facilitate the decision Women who have been on hormone replacement therapy for prolonged periods of time

What about men?
Osteoporosis is not strictly a women’s disease, though it is less common in men. Men naturally have larger, stronger bones than women, and their bone loss generally starts later in life.

Today, 2 million men in the United States have osteoporosis, and another 12 million are at risk.

A BMD test is the best way to measure the health of your bones. Ask your doctor about a BMD test today.