General Guidelines: Standard Screening Ages
Guidelines from organizations like the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend standard DEXA screening based on age and gender for those without specific risk factors. Women are generally advised to begin screening at age 65, while men typically start at age 70. These are general recommendations; individual health factors can alter this timeline.
Screening Earlier: When Risk Factors Come into Play
Many individuals require screening before the standard ages of 65 or 70 due to increased risk of osteoporosis or fracture. Healthcare providers evaluate personal history to determine the need for earlier screening, which can begin around age 50 for postmenopausal women under 65 and men under 70 if certain conditions are met.
Key Risk Factors for Early Screening
Several factors increase the likelihood of needing an earlier DEXA scan:
- Low Body Weight: Being underweight is associated with reduced bone density.
- Previous Fractures: A history of a fragility fracture indicates weakened bones.
- Parental History: A family history of hip fracture, particularly in the mother, increases personal risk.
- Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption negatively impact bone health.
- Certain Medications: Long-term use of medications like corticosteroids or some anti-seizure drugs can weaken bones.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, hyperthyroidism, and type 1 diabetes are linked to bone loss.
- Early Menopause: Women experiencing early menopause (before age 45) have a higher risk.
- Significant Height Loss: A noticeable reduction in height can be a sign of vertebral fractures and bone loss.
The Role of DEXA Scans in Your Health Journey
A DEXA scan, or dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, is a non-invasive test measuring bone mineral density (BMD). The results, presented as T-scores and Z-scores, help doctors assess bone health and fracture risk.
What to Expect During a DEXA Scan
The scan typically takes 15-20 minutes. You will lie on a padded table while a scanner measures bone density, usually at the lower spine and hip. Holding your breath briefly may be necessary to ensure clear images.
Interpreting Your Results: T-Scores
The T-score compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult.
| T-Score Range | Diagnosis | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| -1.0 or higher | Normal | Healthy bone density. |
| Between -1.0 and -2.5 | Osteopenia | Low bone mass, increased risk of osteoporosis. |
| -2.5 or lower | Osteoporosis | Low bone density, high fracture risk. |
How Often Should You Get a DEXA Scan?
The frequency of follow-up scans varies based on initial results and risk factors. Individuals with normal bone density may have scans every 5-10 years. For those with osteopenia, scans might be recommended every 2-5 years depending on risk. Patients with osteoporosis are typically monitored every two years to assess treatment effectiveness.
The Importance of an Individualized Approach
Determining the right time for a DEXA scan requires a discussion with your healthcare provider. They will consider your unique health profile, risk factors, and lifestyle to create a personalized screening schedule. Addressing bone health through diet, exercise, and fall prevention is also crucial.
For more information on DEXA scans, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/data-research/facts-stats/dexa-scan.html.
Conclusion
Answering at what age do you start getting a DEXA scan depends on individual circumstances. While guidelines suggest starting at 65 for women and 70 for men, many require earlier screening due to risk factors. The primary goal of a DEXA scan is to proactively assess bone health and manage conditions like osteopenia or osteoporosis to reduce fracture risk and support healthy aging. Consult your doctor to determine the most appropriate screening plan for you.
