Bone Density Testing – Osteopenia & Osteoporosis
Bone Mass Density Screening May Help Seniors Prevent Broken Bones
Oct 6, 2009
A bone density test is the best predictor of whether or not a senior will have a fracture, or broken bone. People over the age of 65 are at risk for poor bone health, or brittle bones, as bone density typically peaks at about age 30 and begins to decline with age. Seniors who choose to have a bone mass density test can help determine the condition of their bones so that they can make informed decisions regarding osteoporosis prevention and treatment.
Effects of Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
Osteoporosis occurs when bones become thin, resembling swiss cheese, as a result of calcium and protein depletion. Osteopenia is a milder form of osteoporosis in which bone formation is less than bone loss and often leads to osteoporosis if left unchecked. Osteopenia has no symptoms, and osteoporosis may not have symptoms until the disease is advanced.
Osteoporosis plays a role in 1.5 million fractures in America each year. Many seniors who experience a broken bone, such as a hip fracture, may experience long-term effects, including a loss of independence or even death. According to the August 2008 position statement by the American College of Rheumatology, most broken bones occur in people with osteopenia rather than osteoporosis.
Other Names for a Bone Mass Density Test
A bone mass density test may be known by several names, including:
- Bone density test
- Bone mass measurement
- BMD test
- Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry
- DXA test
- DEXA test
What to Expect With a Bone Density Test
A BMD test is quick, usually less than fifteen minutes, and typically does not involve undressing. This is a non-invasive test, which means that nothing punctures the skin. It is similar to an x-ray but is more sensitive than a standard x-ray and may detect changes as small as 2% of bone loss.
The preferred areas for testing include the hip and spine. Alternative bones for testing include the forearm, wrist, heel, or other areas. Follow-up tests are more helpful if the same bones are tested each time.
Where and When to Get a BMD Test
A person’s personal health insurance plan can provide details regarding coverage. Generally speaking, a physician will write a prescription, referral, or order for a bone density test. This test may be performed in a hospital, private radiology provider, or in a medical practice. Repeat bone density testing may be recommended at two year intervals or more often for those at higher risk for fractures.
In order for the prescribing physician to see the results, the senior may need to sign a HIPAA agreement to release information to the referring facility. The healthcare professional should review the results with the senior and provide advice regarding any additional testing or recommendations for treatment.
Results of Bone Density Testing
According to the 2008 National Osteoporosis Foundation’s article entitled “BMD Testing: What the Numbers Mean,” the following T scores are used to define BMD results in seniors:
- Normal bone density is between +1 and -1
- Osteopenia falls between -1 and -2.5
- Osteoporosis includes scores lower than -2.5
Based on results of BMD testing, a physician may recommend osteoporosis medications for people with osteoporosis or for those with osteopenia with particular risks, such as a history of broken bones. Physicians may use a new tool called the absolute fracture risk, which considers BMD plus several other factors to estimate the risk for a broken bone within the next ten years. This information can help seniors with osteopenia to make a more informed choice regarding treatment options.
Medicare Coverage for Bone Mass Measurement
Readers should consult with their personal insurance company to get the most accurate information regarding costs. According to Medicare’s web site on October 5, 2009, Medicare Part B covers 80% of the BMD testing costs once every 24 months after the yearly deductible is met. Medicare may cover more frequent testing or may cover additional costs under certain circumstances.
The Benefits of Bone Mass Density Testing
Seniors who know their bone density may be more proactive in taking preventive or treatment measures to avoid the devastating effects of osteoporosis and fractures like a fractured hip or spine. Some general preventive and treatment measures for optimum bone health in seniors include:
- Eating or drinking 1,200 mg of calcium each day
- Getting 800-1,000 IU of vitamin D daily
- Participating in regular exercise, especially those incorporating balance and weight resistance training
- Taking osteoporosis medications that slow bone loss, stop bone loss, or rebuild bone if recommended by a physician
Bone Mass Density Testing May Help Seniors Avoid Fractures
Many seniors have thin bones but do not experience any symptoms. A fracture may be the first indication of poor bone health. Because broken bones can have such a devastating effect on a senior’s health and independence, a BMD test may provide vital information to help the senior and the physician determine an action plan to help prevent or treat bone loss.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Diet recommendations are general and may not apply to all seniors. Readers are welcome to share their own personal stories related to BMD testing and bone health in the comment box below.
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