It is a test to detect Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the amount of Bone mass decreases to the point where the bones are fragile and easily fractured. Women are more prone to this situation than men. During the age of 20 to 30 we build more bone than we lose, reaching peak density between 25 and 30. Since bone mass begins declining after 30, it is essential to build as much strength as possible at this age. It is advisable to take 1000 milligrams of calcium and 200 international units (IU) of Vitamin D everyday and do weight bearing exercise regularly.

Osteoporosis can affect women who have premature menopause (before 45), long term steroid treatment, hormonal irregularities, those who have a family history, those who smoke or drink and under-weight etc. Osteoporosis can be detected of the spine and hip with DEXA measurement, which is a painless, quick x-ray method.

Weight -bearing exercise, a diet rich in calcium, Vitamin D and other minerals and not smoking can help prevent bone loss. Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective preventive treatment but is not suitable for all women.

Age for testing

Base line screening is advised at the age of 40, followed by a screening about one year after the start of menopause. Age 51 to 55 or five years after menopause is the prime time for preventive measures. During this period we lose up to 15% of our bone mass.