Osteoporosis
is a condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing
its strength and resulting in fragile bones. This weakens the bone and results
in frequent fractures (breaks) in the bones.
A
bone mineral density test measures the amount of calcium in your bones. This
test is important for people who are at risk for osteoporosis, especially women
and older adults.
They are also at an increased risk if they
have:
·
chronic kidney disease
·
early menopause
·
an eating disorder resulting in
low body weight
·
a family history of
osteoporosis
·
rheumatoid arthritis
·
Physically inactive
·
Smoking and alcohol