Osteoporosis Risk Calculator

No. FRAX (Fracture Risk Assessment Tool) is a licensed tool from the University of Sheffield that combines clinical risk factors with your actual bone mineral density (from a DXA scan) using a proprietary statistical model to estimate a 10-year fracture probability. This calculator is a simpler, transparent checklist that counts well-published risk factors from USPSTF guidance — it does not use FRAX's algorithm and cannot calculate a fracture probability. If your result suggests elevated risk, ask your doctor about getting an actual FRAX assessment or a DXA bone density scan.

A DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is a low-radiation imaging test that measures bone mineral density and is the only way to actually diagnose osteoporosis. USPSTF recommends routine DXA screening for all women starting at age 65, or earlier if risk factors are present. This calculator can help you decide whether to raise the question with your doctor sooner rather than waiting.

A fragility fracture is a broken bone caused by a fall from standing height or less, or with no clear trauma at all — the kind of impact that wouldn't normally break a healthy bone. A prior fragility fracture as an adult is one of the strongest known predictors of future fracture and is weighted heavily in every major screening guideline.

Yes. While osteoporosis is more common in postmenopausal women due to estrogen decline, men account for roughly 1 in 4 hip fractures and risk rises noticeably after age 65-70, especially with risk factors like long-term steroid use, low testosterone, smoking, or heavy alcohol use. Evidence for routine screening in men is less established than in women, but the same risk factors apply.

No. This checklist only counts recognized risk factors; it does not measure your bone density and cannot diagnose osteoporosis. A high count means it's worth asking your doctor about a DXA scan or a formal FRAX assessment, which are the only ways to actually measure bone density or estimate a fracture probability.