Maintaining bone health becomes increasingly critical as we age, especially for women. The U.S Prevention Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently updated its guidelines on osteoporosis screening, which were announced on January 14, 2025. According to these new recommendations, women aged 65 and older, as well as postmenopausal women with one or more risk factors for osteoporosis, should undergo a DEXA bone density screening. Meaning, if you fall under the category of any of these risk factors your doctor will be able to recommend a DEXA Scan for Bone Density which is covered by most insurance companies and does not have to come out of pocket. (Body Composition testing is not yet covered by insurance for a prescribed test, please refer to your insurance company and doctor for further clarification)
Understanding Bone Density and Osteoporosis
Bone Density refers to the amount of essential minerals, like calcium and phosphorus, present in your bones. Higher mineral content indicates strong bones, which are less likely to fracture. Osteoporosis, often called a “silent” condition because it shows no symptoms until a fracture occurs, results in bones becoming porous and fragile.
Bones are made up of two layers: the compact outer layer (cortical bone) and the spongy inner layer (trabecular bone). In osteoporosis, the spaces in the trabecular bone become larger, weakening the structure and increasing fracture risk.
Why a DEXA Bone Density Test is Essential
A bone density test (BDT), typically done using a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, is the most reliable method for diagnosing osteoporosis. It helps identify individuals at high risk of fractures before any physical symptoms appear. Given the silent nature of osteoporosis, early screening and diagnosis are crucial to prevent complications.
Updated Guidelines: Who Should Get Tested?
The 2025 guidelines recommend that all women 65 years and older should get a bone density test. Additionally, postmenopausal women with risk factors- such as a family history of osteoporosis, smoking, rapid weight loss, or inflammatory conditions- should also be screened. While the guidelines specifically target older women and insurance covered tests, women in their 50s may also consider getting a bone density test for peace of mind and early intervention. Dexascan.com provides a cash based option for people who want their bone density baseline earlier in life, which we highly recommend.
How the DEXA Bone Density Test Works
A DEXA scan is a quick and painless procedure that positions the body to measure bone density in key areas such as the hip, spine, and sometimes the forearm. The scan involves low levels of radiation and typically lasts between 6-7 minutes. Most patients can remain fully clothed during the test.
Interpreting Your DEXA Bone Density Test Results
The results of a DEXA Scan are recorded as a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult:
- T-score of -1.0 or higher: Normal Bone Density
- T-score between -1.0 and -2.4: low bone density(osteopenia), indicating a higher risk of developing osteoporosis
- T-score of -2.5 or lower: Diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Your healthcare provider will assess your T-score along with your medical history to determine the best course of action. If your results indicate low bone density or osteoporosis, your doctor may prescribe medications like alendronate (Fosamax) or denosumab (Prolia) to help strengthen your bones.
Maintaining Bone Health
To reduce the risk of osteoporosis, consider adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as:
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation: Discuss the appropriate dosage with your doctor.
- Regular Weight-bearing exercises: Activities like walking, dancing or weightlifting can help maintain bone strength.
- Health diet and weight management: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports overall bone health.
The updated USPSTF guidelines emphasize the importance of early screening for osteoporosis to prevent fractures and maintain quality of life as we age. If you fall into the recommended categories for screening, talk to your doctor about scheduling a DEXA bone density test. Proactive management of bone health can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.
For more information on bone health and osteoporosis prevention, consult your healthcare provider. Explore Dexascan.com.