Bone Density – What do the test results mean?
A. Your BMD is directly related to fracture risk. The higher the BMD, the lower your risk for fracture. Bone density results are compared to individuals in your age group and reported as a “Z score.” A comparison is also made to normal young individuals and is described as a “T score.” Osteoporosis is defined as a BMD T score of -2.5 and below, even if you have not had fractures, and is normally an indication for treatment. A normal T score is -1 or greater. Osteopenia (low bone mineral density, but not yet osteoporotic) is defined as a T score which lies between -1 and -2.5. If you have low bone mass, your physician can discuss with you other risk factors of osteoporosis and determine whether or not you should consider treatment to prevent osteoporosis.
