What T-score classification indicates osteoporosis?

The classification of T-scores is a key aspect of diagnosing osteoporosis. The T-score represents the number of standard deviations a person's bone density is above or below the average peak bone density of a healthy young adult of the same sex.

A T-score at or below -2.5 indicates that bone density is significantly lower than normal, which is the established threshold for diagnosing osteoporosis. This categorization is important as it identifies individuals who are at a heightened risk of fractures and helps guide treatment options to improve bone health and reduce the likelihood of osteoporotic fractures.

Understanding the other classifications provides valuable context: a T-score above -1.0 is considered normal bone density, while scores between -1 and -2.5 fall into the category of low bone mass or osteopenia, which is a risk factor for developing osteoporosis but does not constitute the disease itself. Additionally, a T-score between -1.5 and -2.0 is part of the osteopenia range and does not meet the diagnostic criteria for osteoporosis. Therefore, the correct classification indicating osteoporosis is indeed at or below -2.5.