If You Have Osteopenia, How High is Your Fracture Risk? The FRAX Algorithm

By Lila de Tantillo, Health Guide Monday, March 17, 2008

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For many who take the diligent step of undergoing a bone densitometry scan to learn about the status of their bone health, the test can provide answers - and more questions. For a T-score greater than -2.5, which is considered a diagnosis of osteoporosis, the consensus among most doctors is that...

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Inspiring Osteoporosis Donation for DXA Scanners

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Teresa

3/18/08 9:54am

What sort of doctor does a bone densitometry scan? Is there a certain age that I should get this test done?

Lila de Tantillo, Health Guide

3/19/08 3:46pm

Thanks so much for your excellent question! It is recommended women in particular to consider receiving DXA scans after age 65. However, those who have osteoporosis risk factors -- especially fractures -- may want to discuss with their physician if they should consider one earlier. Doctors who perform the scans include general physicians and specialists such as endocrinologists, orthopedic surgeons and gynecologists. If your doctor does not have a machine in the office but feels the exam is necessary he or she can refer you to a local hospital or clinic with the device.

Anonymous

7/16/09 3:06pm

I had my first bone density scan recently at the age of 50 and my femural neck and lumbar T-scores came back in the osteopenia range. My doctor prescribed a medication which I am reluctant to take. I completed the FRAX test on line and my percentages for hip fracture and major osteoporotic are way below the percentages that indicate I need medication. Thanks for the information in this article as I will be having this dicussion with my Dr.

If You Have Osteopenia, How High is Your Fracture Risk? The FRAX Algorithm

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