This test has become the gold standard for diagnosis and follow-up of osteoporosis. Measurements are usually made at the spine, hip, or forearm and are noninvasive, quick, and painless and utilize a minimal amount of radiation. Insurance also covers this test for qualified Medicare beneficiaries. In healthy bone, there is a balance between the breakdown of old bone tissue and the manufacture of new, replacement material. In osteoporosis, breakdown occurs faster than replacement, and the bones become weak.
Women are at greater risk than men, especially after menopause.
There is a direct relationship between the lack of estrogen after menopause and the contribution to osteoporosis. Symptoms may not develop until bone loss is extensive. Other risk factors may include family history, alcohol abuse, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, and chronically low intake of calcium. Osteoporosis is a major public health concern. The following statistics identify the extensiveness of the osteoporotic health problem.