What is BMD test ?
A bone mineral density test uses X-rays to measure the amount of minerals — namely calcium — in your bones. This test is important for people who are at risk for osteoporosis, especially women and older adults. The test is also referred to as dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
What a Bone Density Test Can Do
A bone density test tells you if you have normal bone, low bone density (osteopenia) or osteoporosis.
It is the only test that can diagnose osteoporosis. The lower your bone density, the greater your risk of breaking a bone.
A bone density test can help you and your healthcare provider with the following:
- learn if you have weak bones or osteoporosis before you break a bone
- predict your chance of breaking a bone in the future
- see if your bone density is improving, getting worse or staying the same
- find out how well an osteoporosis medicine is working
- let you know if you have osteoporosis after you break a bone
**No preparation needed before the examination but make sure you bring your previous BMD results if done in different facility.