We already know that the point of getting a bone scan is to find out if one has osteopenia or osteoporosis -- and therefore a higher risk of fracture. But a recent study designed to determine who is most at risk indicates that such exams may have even more predictive value than previously realized.

According to a piece in the Journal of the Americal Medical Association, the results of an initial bone scan in women over 65 were correlated to the incidence of spinal fracture over the next 15 years. Only one in 10 with normal bone density had a fracture, while 1 in four with bone loss had a fracture.

What an important reminder to take seriously the results of these diagnostic tests -- check out an article on the subject at http://kdka.com/health/bone.fractures.study.2.613916.html.