What is Bone Mineral Density (BMD)?

What is Bone Mineral Density?

 

Bone mineral density is used to determine how dense bones are and whether or not a person has osteoporosis.  About 80% of bone density is determined by heredity and 20% by lifestyle. 

 

Around age 30, your bones reach their maximum strength and density, known as peak bone mass.

Who Should Get Tested?

 

Generally, BMD testing is done when a patient reaches age 50 or menopause, or younger when risk factors are present. 

Every woman should have a baseline Bone Mineral Density Scan no later than age 65. 

Medicare pays for this test every two years and most insurance companies cover the cost of the scan. 

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