BoneScore

Osteoporosis is one of the most prevalent conditions associated with aging. It is characterized by low bone mass and bone structure deterioration, both of which lead to increased bone fragility and increased risk of fracture.

BoneScore uses electron beam tomography to measure bone density. This is called quantitative computed tomography, or QCT. QCT is the most accurate method available, because unlike the other major method-DXA- it measures isolated trabecular bone, the first part of the bone to become affected by factors that decrease bone mass, and the first part to respond to treatment. DXA can only provide an estimate of true bone density, and cannot track changes in response to treatment as sensitively as QCT.

BoneScore numbers:
T Score = Standard deviations from young adult mean bone density (positive is above mean, negative is below mean) for same sex.

Z score = Standard deviations from mean for your age and sex.

BMD = Bone mineral density (mg/cc).

Osteoporosis = More than 2.5 standard deviations below young adult mean for same sex- requires physician follow-up

Osteopenia = 1-2.5 standard deviations below the young adult mean for same sex. Suggest calcium supplements, vitamin D and exercise.

Osteoporosis Stats:

• Affects 25 million Americans (80% women, 20% men).
  
• 8 million Americans have osteoporosis and 17 million have low bone mass (osteopenia).
  
• Osteoporosis is responsible for 1.5 million fractures annually.
  
• Estimated annual cost for treatment is $10 billion.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors:

• Female
  
• Thin, small frame
  
• Advanced age
  
• Family history
  
• Early menopause
  
• Low calcium diet
  
• Steroid use
  
• Inactive lifestyle
  
• Cigarette smoking
  
• Excessive alcohol use
  
• Caucasian or Asian

If the mean is the average value of BMD for a given age, 1 standard deviation on either side of the mean accounts for 70% of the population, and 2 standard deviations accounts for 95% of the population