Published on 14 July 2026
Osteopenia is a common condition that becomes more relevant with age, but many people haven’t heard of it until they’re diagnosed. While it doesn’t always cause symptoms, it can be an early indicator of reduced bone strength and a higher risk of fractures over time.
Understanding what osteopenia is, who it affects, and when to seek assessment can help you take a more proactive approach to your bone health.
What is osteopenia?
Osteopenia means your bone density is lower than normal for your age range, but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis (a health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break).
Bone is constantly being broken down and rebuilt. As we get older, this process can become less balanced, leading to a gradual loss of bone density. When this decline reaches a certain level, it may be described as osteopenia.
A diagnosis is usually made following a DEXA (bone density) scan, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. Osteopenia is often considered a midpoint between healthy bones and osteoporosis.
While it isn’t a condition in itself that always requires treatment, it’s an important marker of bone health and future fracture risk.
What are the most common osteopenia symptoms?
Osteopenia doesn’t usually cause noticeable symptoms.
For many people, it’s identified:
- During a bone density (DEXA) scan
- After a fracture from a minor fall or injury
- Through assessment of risk factors, such as menopause or long-term medication use
Because bone loss happens gradually, there’s often no clear warning sign. In some cases, a fracture may be the first indication that bone strength has been reduced.
This is why early assessment and awareness of risk factors are so important.
Who is most likely to develop osteopenia?
Osteopenia can affect anyone, but some people are more at risk than others.
Common risk factors include:
- Age over 50
- Being female, particularly after menopause
- A family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures
- A lower body weight or smaller frame
- Smoking or regular alcohol intake
- Low levels of physical activity
- A diet low in calcium or vitamin D
Certain medical conditions and treatments can also increase risk, including:
- Long term steroid use
- Some cancer treatments
- Hormonal conditions, such as thyroid disorders
- Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- Conditions affecting nutrient absorption, such as coeliac disease
These factors are typically considered together to understand your overall likelihood of fractures, rather than in isolation.
Is there a link between menopause and osteopenia?
Yes, menopause is one of the most significant contributors to bone density loss.
Oestrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone density. When levels fall during menopause, bone is broken down more quickly than it is rebuilt. As a result, bone density can decrease more rapidly during this stage of life.
If you are approaching or have gone through menopause, it may be worth discussing your bone health as part of your wider wellbeing. You can visit our women’s health hub for advice or access female health assessments at our hospital to clearly see what areas of your health need improving or keeping an eye on.
Can GLP-1 medications cause osteopenia?
Current evidence doesn't show a clear link that GLP-1 drugs (including semaglutide such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and liraglutide such as Victoza and Saxenda) directly cause osteopenia. However, the rapid weight loss associated with these medications may contribute to some loss of bone mineral density in certain people.
Is osteopenia reversible?
Osteopenia can often be managed effectively, and in many cases, bone health can be improved or stabilised.
The aim is to reduce further bone loss and lower your risk of fractures. This is typically achieved through a combination of:
- Weight bearing and strength-based exercise
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
- Lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking and moderating alcohol
- Medication (in cases where fracture risk is higher)
Not everyone with osteopenia will need medical treatment. In many cases, simple lifestyle measures are enough to support long term bone health.
Can I access a DEXA scan for osteopenia?
A DEXA scan is the most reliable way to assess bone density and understand your fracture risk.
The scan is quick, non-invasive, and uses a very low dose of radiation. It provides a clear measurement of your bone strength and can help guide decisions about prevention or treatment.
Bone density scans are usually recommended based on individual risk factors rather than as a routine screening test. You may be advised to have a scan if you:
- Are over 50 and have risk factors for bone loss
- Have had a fracture after a minor injury
- Are postmenopausal with additional risk factors
- Take medications that affect bone density, such as long-term steroids
- Have a strong family history of osteoporosis
At our hospital, DEXA scanning is available for people who want clarity around their bone health, particularly if there are risk factors or concerns. Our specialist team can help you understand whether a scan is appropriate and what steps to take next.
Book your DEXA scan at Benenden Hospital
To arrange a DEXA scan, you’ll need a referral from a healthcare professional. This could be your own GP, through our Private GP service or from a consultant or osteopath. Please note, it is not suitable for anyone under the age of 20 or those who have had a baby in the last 12 months.
For more information, or to book, please contact our Imaging department on 01580 362887.