What BMD T-score should prompt consideration of a Vertebral Fracture Assessment for women aged 70 or older?

In the context of assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of vertebral fractures in women aged 70 or older, a T-score at or below -1.0 is significant. This threshold indicates a potential risk for osteoporosis, as a T-score of -1.0 suggests that bone density is already lower than the optimal range but not yet in the osteoporosis category.

For women in this age group, it's important to proactively evaluate any existing health factors, family history, or previous fractures that may heighten their risk. A T-score at or below -1.0 indicates the necessity for further assessment to prevent adverse outcomes, such as vertebral fractures, which can lead to increased morbidity. Therefore, this level of density warrants a Vertebral Fracture Assessment to explore any potential impending fractures that may not yet be clinically apparent.

While other T-score ranges suggest varying degrees of risk, they do not trigger the same level of concern for immediate assessment as a score at or below -1.0. For instance, a T-score above -1.0 suggests a lower risk, while -2.5 is indicative of osteoporosis, and although concerning, the focus at the T-score of -1.0 marks a critical point