Osteoporosis (porous and fragile bones) has become a major health problem for women. About 10 million U. S. women have osteoporosis and another 20 million have osteopenia (low bone density), putting them at risk for bone fractures that may occur as a result of little or no injury.

Osteoporosis related fractures of the spine lead to chronic, debilitating pain and deformity. After a hip fracture, about 20% of women will die within 1 year, 25% will require long-term care, and 50% will have long term loss of mobility.

The good news is that osteoporosis is preventable with the early assessment of risk factors and measures to preserve or increase bone mass. Adequate nutrition, exercise and a healthy lifestyle free of tobacco help to maximize peak bone mass early in life. Once women reach menopause, however, drug therapy may be needed to reduce to occurrence of fractures.

Who should have a bone density test?

• All postmenopausal women under age 65 who have one or more additional risk factors for osteoporosis (in addition to being postmenopausal and female)
• All women age 65 and older regardless of additional risk factors
• Postmenopausal women who sustain a fracture
• Women who are considering therapy for osteoporosis if bone density testing would facilitate the decision
• Women who have been on hormone replacement therapy (HRT/ERT) for prolonged periods