Which statement about osteoporosis screening is accurate?

• A. Initiated at 65 for postmenopausal women
• B. Initiated at 70 for all
• C. Only in men over 70
• D. No screening guideline applies to postmenopausal women

Answer: (A)

Screening for osteoporosis aims to detect low bone density before fractures occur, typically using a DXA scan, so treatment can reduce fracture risk. The statement that reflects standard practice is that routine screening should begin at age 65 for postmenopausal women. This aligns with guidelines that recommend bone density testing in women 65 and older, with earlier testing considered for those who have significant risk factors (such as prior fragility fracture, glucocorticoid use, family history, low body weight, smoking, or high alcohol use).

Starting screening at 65 is not about a universal age for all, and the idea that there are no guidelines for postmenopausal women is incorrect. It’s also not limited to men over 70; while men have recommendations, routine screening in this context specifically targets postmenopausal women at the defined age threshold.