Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Osteoporosis: Should I Have a Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Test?

You may want to have a say in this decision, or you may simply want to follow your doctor's recommendation. Either way, this information will help you understand what your choices are so that you can talk to your doctor about them.

Osteoporosis: Should I Have a Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Test?

Here's a record of your answers. You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.

Get the facts

Your options

  • Have the DXA test to find out whether you need treatment for osteoporosis.
  • Don't have the test.

Key points to remember

  • It's important to know if you are at risk for osteoporosis, Opens dialog. The DXA test measures bone thickness to find out if you have osteoporosis or if you are at risk for a broken bone (fracture).
  • The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women age 65 or older have routine tests to measure their bone thickness. If you are at increased risk for fractures caused by osteoporosis, routine screening should start sooner.footnote 1
  • Experts suggest that older men talk to their doctors about whether a bone density, Opens dialog test is right for them. It may depend on their risk for fractures.footnote 1, footnote 2
  • You probably don't need this test if:
    • You are at low risk for osteoporosis and are younger than 65.
    • You have osteoporosis but are not willing to make lifestyle changes or take medicines to treat it.
  • The test may be a good choice for you if you are at risk for osteoporosis and are willing to make lifestyle changes and take medicines to treat it.

FAQs

Incomplete section

Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.