Search results
Results From The WOW.Com Content Network
Most individuals reach peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 30. By age 40, the body slowly begins to lose bone mass. However, several steps to avoid severe bone loss over time can be taken, and the rate of bone loss can be significantly retarded through a regimen of proper nutrition and regular exercise.
Although men have a higher peak bone mass, they also are at risk for osteoporosis, especially after age 70 when bone loss and fracture risk increase significantly. This chart shows bone mass in women as it relates to age.
Interpret Your Bone Density Scan Results. DEXA bone scan results scores are measured as T-scores, which is a comparison of a person’s bone density with that of a healthy 30-year-old adult. The lower bone density test results, the lower your total bone density, indicating osteopenia or osteoporosis.
T-scores between -1 and -2.5 indicate that a person has low bone mass, but it’s not quite low enough for them to be diagnosed with osteoporosis. A diagnosis of osteoporosis is made if a person’s T-score is -2.5 or lower.
A Z-score compares a person's bone density with the average bone density of those of the same age, sex, and body size. A low score can indicate secondary osteoporosis.
For postmenopausal women and men age 50 years and older, the T-score is the number that is used for diagnostic classification, as follows: A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal bone density. Examples are 0.9, 0 and -0.9. A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 means you have low bone mass or osteopenia.
A bone mineral density (BMD) test measures calcium and other minerals in bone. Bones containing more minerals are denser, so they tend to be stronger and less likely to break. Bones can become less dense as we age or if we develop certain medical conditions.