Bone Mineral Density Testing

What Is A Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Test?

A bone mineral density test is an easy reliable test that measures the density, or thickness, of your bones. It measures the amount of mineral (calcium) in a specific area of bone. The more mineral you have in the bone measured, the greater your bone density or bone mass.

A BMD test can:

• Measure the density of your bones
• Detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs
• Help to predict your chances of fracturing in the future
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatments for osteoporosis

When is a BMD test recommended for postmenopausal women?

In general, a BMD test is recommended for the following postmenopausal women:

• All women aged 65 or older regardless of risk factors;
• Women under age 65 who have one or more risk factors for osteoporosis (other than race, gender and postmenopausal status).
• Women who have a current and/or previous fracture with minimal trauma;
• Women taking steroid medications for more than three months

By using the NYSOPEP Risk Assessment for Postmenopausal Women you can determine your risk factors for osteoporosis.