Bone Density Test and Results

Today I went to have a bone density test. The specific test I had was a Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA, previously DEXA), a means of measuring bone mineral density (BMD) using X-rays. DXA is the most widely used and most thoroughly studied bone density measurement technology. I was given the test as chemotherapy can cause decreases in estrogen, a female hormone which among other things helps build up and maintain bone density. There is also the possibility that I am permanently menopausal following the chemotherapy ("chemical menopause). A lack of circulating estrogen in the body means that I am at greater risk to lose bone density.

The bone scanning was quick, about 10 minutes. The area measured was the lower spine (as shown in the above image) as well as the hips (which are both the site which best reflects possible bone thinning as well as being a site at risk for fractures in bones are thin).

The results of my scan were good. My score was just at -1 or slightly above that for the sites measured. A score of zero is average; a score of +1 to -1 roughly accounts for about 70% of people and is considered in the normal range (scores above and below this are considered beter or worse than average). The cut-offs for bone density are as follows:

-- Normal bone: T-score better than -1.
-- Osteopenia: T-score between -1 and -2.5
-- Osteoporosis: T-score less than -2.5

So the docs are happy that my bones are normal. Their advice is to keep taking calcium supplements, do weight-bearing exercise (like walking), eat foods rich in calcium (for example, dairy products, leafy green vegetables, broccoli and salmon) and limit excessive caffeine (which can interfere with calcium absorption). There are many web sites that offer tips on improving bone health, like HOW TO BUILD BETTER BONES and TIPS TO PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS.