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How Frequently Should I Have a Bone Density Test?

  1. Overview

    Annual Testing Is Beneficial

    • An annual bone density test for women is recommended since they are susceptible to osteoporosis, according to Caring.com, especially women who are postmenopausal. An annual screening can tell you if there is any decline in your bone density, a sign of osteoporosis. If left untreated, osteoporosis can result in weak bones that break or fracture easily.

    Less Often Is OK

    • According to WebMD.com, less frequent bone density scans are OK because the decline of density is about 1 percent or less annually. Since this decrease is less than the margin of error, results of a bone density scan are worthless if the number is low. If you wait a few years in between tests you will be able to know if there is a dramatic decrease.

    Bottom Line

    • Listen to your doctor's advice about frequency of bone density scans. Skipping a year or two will not harm you and will actually provide your doctor with better evidence if there is a dramatic decrease in bone density.

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