# How often should I have a bone density scan? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/how-often-bone-density-scan-osteoporosis-prevention Language: en Category: orthopedics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.766Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.766Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/how-often-bone-density-scan-osteoporosis-prevention The frequency of having a bone density scan (DEXA) depends on age, gender, and individual risk factors. In general, women aged 65 and older are advised to undergo this screening. For those with specific risk factors, a physician may recommend screening at an earlier age or more frequently to monitor bone health and prevent osteoporosis [\[1\]](). A bone density scan aims to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bones, which helps assess their strength and thickness. Denser bones are stronger and less prone to fractures. As you age or develop certain medical conditions, bones may become thinner, which increases the risk of osteoporosis [\[2\]](). ## Who should undergo a bone density scan? In addition to women aged 65 and older, other groups may need a bone density scan. This includes postmenopausal women younger than 65 and men over age 50 who have risk factors for osteoporosis. These risk factors include significantly low body weight, sustaining one or more fractures after age 50, losing half an inch or more in height within one year, or having a family history of osteoporosis [\[1\]](). Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as long-term use of tobacco or alcohol, and not getting enough calcium and vitamin D, may increase the risk of bone density loss and warrant testing [\[1\]](). ## What do bone density scan results mean? Bone density scan results are usually given as T-scores and Z-scores. The T-score compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult of the same gender. If your T-score is -1.0 or higher, bone density is considered normal. If it is between -1.0 and -2.4, this indicates low bone density (osteopenia), which may increase the risk of osteoporosis. A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates a potential for osteoporosis [\[3\]](). The Z-score compares your bone density to other people of the same age, weight, gender, and ethnic background; it is typically used for premenopausal women, men under age 50, and children. A Z-score of -2.0 or lower indicates low bone density, which may mean that osteoporosis is caused by medications or other underlying medical conditions [\[3\]](). ## Determining scan frequency based on risks Based on the results of the bone density scan and individual risk factors, a physician can determine how often a repeat scan is needed. For example, a DEXA scan might be recommended every 2 years for high-risk individuals, every 3 to 5 years for those at moderate risk, and every 10 to 15 years for those at low risk [\[1\]](). It is important to discuss scan results with your physician to understand what they mean for you and to determine any necessary preventive or therapeutic steps. Recommendations may include increasing physical activity, adding calcium and vitamin D to your diet, or taking medications to increase bone density. For more information on preventing osteoporosis, you can visit [Bone Density Scan: Early Detection and Osteoporosis Prevention (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Bone Density Scan]() - [Bone Density]() - [Bone Mineral Density Tests: What the Numbers Mean]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/how-often-bone-density-scan-osteoporosis-prevention#answer