Prevalence of densitometric osteoporosis in women younger than 65 years without indications for DXA screening

Abstract

Osteoporosis is the most prevalent metabolic bone disease and is associated with an increased risk of fragility fractures. Current guidelines recommend bone mineral density (BMD) assessment by DXA primarily in women aged ≥65 years or in younger women with clinical risk factors. However, DXA is frequently performed in women under 65 years without guideline-based indications. Objective: To describe the prevalence of densitometric osteoporosis in women under 65 years undergoing DXA in the absence of clinical risk factors. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at a referral center. Women aged 40–65 years consecutively referred for DXA between February and September 2024 were included. Participants with FRAX® clinical risk factors, major osteoporotic fractures, secondary metabolic bone diseases, or dietary restrictions were excluded. BMD was assessed at the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck. Osteoporosis was defined as a T-score ≤ -2.5. Results: A total of 119 women were included (mean age 53 years; range 43-62). Mean T-scores were -0.9±1.3 at the lumbar spine, -0.9±1.1 at the total hip, and -1.0±1.0 at the femoral neck. BMD values within the osteoporotic range was observed in 13% (n=15) at the lumbar spine and in 7% (n=8) at both the total hip and femoral neck. Overall, 17% (n=20) had BMD values within the osteoporotic range at at least one skeletal site. Conclusion: Densitometric osteoporosis was identified in a relevant proportion of women younger than 65 years without traditional risk factors, supporting an individualized approach to bone health assessment.