Early scans for bone density, before menopause, can help establish a useful baseline.
By Libby Nichols
We talk a lot about aging well, from skincare routines to supplements. But bone health? Not so much.
At the Iowa Clinic, Dr. Jacob Murray (pictured) says that by the time many women start asking questions, their bones are already losing density. To better understand why that matters, we spoke with him about his specialty, rheumatology, and what he’s learned from treating conditions of the bones, joints and connective tissues.
Rheumatologists often see the long-term effects of bone loss, which is why Murray emphasizes early awareness. Bone density refers to bone strength, and it naturally changes over time. Bone mass typically peaks in early adulthood and gradually declines with age. For women, that decline often accelerates during and after menopause, when changes in estrogen directly affect bone strength.
As bone density decreases, the risk of osteoporosis increases, and women are affected at significantly higher rates than men.
“Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease because bone loss can occur without symptoms until a fracture happens,” Murray explained. “Many women do not realize there is a problem until a simple fall leads to a serious injury.”
Genetics can also influence bone health. A family history of osteoporosis or fractures may increase risk, but Murray says that genetics are only part of the picture. Lifestyle choices also play a critical role. Staying active, supporting bone health through nutrition, and talking with a health care provider early can help reduce risk, even for those with a genetic predisposition.
“Getting a bone density scan before menopause can be really helpful for establishing a baseline,” Murray said. “Repeating it after menopause allows us to see where bone health stands and talk through the best ways to protect it moving forward.”
While some bone loss is a natural part of aging, Murray notes that women aren’t powerless. In his work at the Iowa Clinic, he helps patients slow bone loss and maintain strength through habits like weight-bearing exercise, proper nutrition and early monitoring. These steps can make a difference over time, especially when started early.
Starting the conversation sooner matters. Bone health is often treated as a later-life concern, but paying attention in your 40s can have a lasting impact. Discussing personal risk factors, family history, and bone density screening with your healthcare provider can help catch changes early.
Bone health may not get the same attention as heart health or hormones, but it plays a key role in long-term mobility, independence and quality of life.
Libby Nichols is the creator and founder of Meet DSM, and she writes about all things local for dsm magazine.
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