Early detection is important in the successful treatment of osteoporosis. Talk with your doctor about a prevention strategy that includes regular screening. If you’re a woman, the National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends that you have a bone mineral density (BMD) test if you aren’t taking estrogen and you:

• Are older than age 65.
• Are postmenopausal and have at least one risk factor for osteoporosis.
• Have a vertebral abnormality.
• Use corticosteroid medications (e.g. prednisone) that can cause osteoporosis.
• Have type 1 diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid disease, or a family history of osteoporosis.
• Experienced early menopause.