From the Research
Screening for osteoporosis is recommended every 2 years for women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older, as stated in the most recent study 1. For younger individuals with risk factors such as low body weight, previous fractures, family history of osteoporosis, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or use of certain medications (like corticosteroids), screening should begin earlier, typically around age 50. The primary screening tool is a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, which measures bone mineral density. Some key points to consider when deciding on the frequency of osteoporosis screening include:
- Age: women 65 and older, men 70 and older
- Risk factors: low body weight, previous fractures, family history of osteoporosis, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or use of certain medications
- Bone mineral density: measured by DEXA scan
- Treatment response: monitoring typically occurs every 1-2 years to assess treatment response
- Significant risk factors or rapid bone loss: may require more frequent screening The most recent study 1 provides the most up-to-date guidance on osteoporosis screening, and its recommendations should be prioritized over older studies 2, 3, 4, 5. It's also important to note that the US Preventive Services Task Force did not find sufficient evidence to support routine screening in men, as mentioned in 1. However, the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation recommends screening men 70 years and older and men with clinical risk factors, also mentioned in 1. Overall, the key is to prioritize screening for those at highest risk of osteoporosis and to monitor treatment response and bone density changes over time.