How is osteoporosis often diagnosed?

Osteoporosis is primarily diagnosed through a bone density scan, commonly known as a DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan. This imaging technique is specifically designed to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and is considered the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis. The results of a DEXA scan provide crucial information about bone health by comparing an individual's bone density to that of a healthy population or to expected values for age and sex.

A bone density scan is highly sensitive and can detect changes in BMD that might occur before fractures happen. By establishing a baseline of bone density, healthcare providers can monitor changes over time, assess an individual's risk for fractures, and guide treatment decisions aimed at reducing fracture risk.

Other methods like X-ray imaging are not as effective for early diagnosis of osteoporosis, as they typically show changes in bone density only after significant bone loss has already occurred. Clinical examinations can provide clues about the potential for osteoporosis, but they cannot definitively diagnose the condition. Blood tests for calcium levels may help assess overall bone health but do not measure bone density or directly indicate the presence or absence of osteoporosis. Thus, the DEXA scan remains the most reliable method for diagnosing this condition.