Bone mineral density — Definition & Meaning

A measure of the mineral content of bone, used to assess fracture risk.

Also known as: BMD, bone density

Bone mineral density (BMD) measures how much mineral is packed into bone tissue and is a key indicator of bone strength and fracture risk.

It is most commonly measured with a DEXA scan and reported using the T-score and Z-score.

Related terms

A low-dose X-ray test that measures bone mineral density.

A bone-density result comparing your bone to that of a healthy young adult.

A condition of weakened, porous bone that raises the risk of fractures.

Lower-than-normal bone density that is not yet in the osteoporosis range.