A bone mineral density (BMD) scan is a test that may help a doctor detect osteoporosis before a person suffers a broken bone due to the disease. It is commonly used to measure bone mass throughout the body. In general, all women age 65 and older should have a BMD test. Women at risk of bone disease, even if under age 65, should also be screened. The results of this test can help your doctor determine whether treatment is needed. It is quick, accurate, and painless.

If you are over 50 years of age and female, studies suggest you should have 1,200 mg of calcium and 400-600 IU of vitamin D through diet and/or supplements. Your body can best handle about 500 mg of calcium at any one time, whether from food or supplements. Therefore, consume your calcium-rich foods and/or supplements in smaller doses throughout the day, preferably with a meal. Exposure to sunlight gives you a healthy dose of vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium. Only 15 minutes a day of sunlight without sunscreen helps raise vitamin D levels and this promotes calcium absorption. Use sunscreen the rest of the day. Fish like salmon and herring are among the best sources of dietary vitamin D. Talk to your doctor to learn more.

Lack of exercise, especially as you get older, can contribute to lower bone mass or density. Two types of exercise are important for women with osteoporosis: 1) weight-bearing exercise (eg, walking, stair climbing, and dancing) and 2) resistance exercise (eg, use of free weights or weight machines). These can help maintain bone health and prevent further bone loss. Exercise can also reduce your risk of falling by improving strength, flexibility, and balance. Talk to your doctor about a safe, effective exercise program to best meet your needs.

Medicine can be a key factor in protecting bone health in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. Prescription osteoporosis medicines are available that can build and maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fracture. But no medicine can work if you don't take it. So fill your prescription, take it properly, and continue taking it as directed.

Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you, and take The Challenge to stick with these steps throughout the year in order to help you manage your bone health.