Ladies, here’s a fact you may not know: women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Approximately 80% of osteoporosis cases in the U.S. occur in women, and one in two women over 50 will experience a bone fracture due to this silent condition. But here’s the good news—osteoporosis is preventable, and identifying bone health risks early can make all the difference. That’s where scheduling a DEXA scan comes in.
Why Your Bones Deserve Extra Attention
Our bones are responsible for so much more than we often realize. They protect vital organs, store essential minerals, and support movement throughout our lives, especially when life is as busy and demanding as it can be for women. However, certain aspects of being female make us more prone to bone loss:
- Women naturally have smaller, thinner bones compared to men.
- Hormonal changes during menopause can accelerate bone density loss due to a sharp decrease in estrogen.
- Lifestyle factors like insufficient calcium or vitamin D intake, lack of exercise, or smoking can compound these risks.
Osteoporosis is a “silent disease,” developing over years without obvious symptoms until a sudden fracture reveals its presence. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be detected and managed early.
DEXA Scans: Your Bone Health Detective
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a simple, non-invasive test that uses low-dose X-rays to measure your bone density. It gives us valuable insights into whether your bones are strong and healthy or may need some extra care. Here’s why a DEXA scan is essential:
- It identifies osteopenia or osteoporosis before fractures occur.
- It evaluates your fracture risk, offering a heads-up before your bones lose further strength.
- It provides T-scores and Z-scores that allow your doctor to develop a personalized bone health plan.
Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?
While bone health risks are higher over time, it’s never too early to take preventive action. Think about scheduling a DEXA scan if:
- You’re 65+ (automatically recommended for women in this age group).
- You’ve experienced early menopause, bone fractures after 50, or a decrease in height.
- You have a family history of osteoporosis or are taking medications (like steroids) that could affect your bone density.
Steps to Keep Your Bones Strong
While preventative healthcare tools like DEXA scans are crucial, there are daily habits you can adopt to care for your bones:
- Boost Calcium and Vitamin D: Include calcium-rich foods, like dairy, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals in your diet. Sunshine remains a fantastic source of vitamin D, but supplements can fill the gaps if necessary.
- Exercise Regularly: Weight-bearing activities like walking, dancing, or resistance training help maintain and improve bone strength.
- Avoid Bone Health Saboteurs: Cut smoking out of your life, manage healthy alcohol intake, and watch for medications that may affect calcium absorption.
- Stay Ahead of the Game: Get regular check-ups and advocate for a conversation about your bone health if it hasn’t been addressed.
Invest in Your Future Health
Understanding your risk factors is just the first step. For actionable prevention, scheduling a DEXA scan is key. Think of it as an investment in your health and mobility for years to come.
Schedule your DEXA scan today and empower yourself with the knowledge to protect your bones. It’s never too early to prioritize your future and to ensure your bones stay strong and resilient.