What are the risk factors for low bone density?
• The most important risk factor is being a woman, and the second is age. Low bone density is more common after menopause and the risk is higher the older you are. Any low estrogen state, such as surgical removal of the ovaries or anorexia with loss of menstrual cycles, can cause low bone density. Other risk factors include long-term use of several specific medications, such as thyroid hormone, steroids like prednisone, and others; nutritional disorders; Chrohn’s Disease; petite stature; previous chemotherapy for cancer; and bed-rest or sedentary life style. • How often should I have a DEXA study? Most doctors suggest having a first DEXA in your forties, so that there is time to take action before menopause if your bone density is low. If your bone density is normal, it generally does not need to be repeated until menopause. If your bone density is low your doctor may ask for another scan in a year to assess the effect of intervention. For post-menopausal women with normal bone density
