Bone Mineral Density Testing for Men

Bone mineral density (BMD) testing is a tool used to diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk. It is also recommended for men who are at risk of osteoporosis.

Men at increased risk of osteoporosis include those with a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, sedentary lifestyle, low calcium and vitamin D intake, low testosterone levels, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions that increase the risk of bone loss such as hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

BMD testing is typically done with a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan, which measures the density of the bones in the spine, hip, and sometimes other bones. The results are compared to the average peak bone mass of young, healthy adults of the same sex and race to determine whether the patient has normal bone density, osteopenia (low bone mass), or osteoporosis.

Men who are found to have low bone density or osteoporosis may benefit from treatment to reduce their risk of fractures. This may include calcium and vitamin D supplements, lifestyle modifications such as weight-bearing exercise and smoking cessation, and medications such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, and teriparatide. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s overall health and fracture risk.