human
My doctor wants me to get a bone density test. What is this and why is it important?
assistant
A bone density test measures the density of your bones, which is an indicator of your risk for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more likely to break. The test is done by taking X-rays of your spine, hip, and wrist. The results are used to determine whether you have low bone mass, or osteopenia, which can increase your risk for osteoporosis.