Osteoporosis / fracture risk screening (FRAX/CAROC-style risk assessment)

Bone

Usually 40+ (risk-based)Every few years, or after a major health change or fracture5–10 minutes

FRAX/CAROC-style tools estimate your 10‑year fracture risk and help decide whether DXA testing or treatment is needed.

Guidance for your location

Location

Country

Select a country only if you want local program matching.

Region-specific program details are not available for this location yet, but you can still use the general profile information.

Recommended Age

Usually 40+ (risk-based)

Frequency

Every few years, or after a major health change or fracture

Duration

5–10 minutes

Overview

Osteoporosis risk tools (FRAX/CAROC-style) combine age, sex, prior fractures, medication use (like steroids), smoking, and other factors to estimate fracture risk over the next 10 years. They are used to guide whether a DXA bone density scan is indicated and to support treatment decisions. The result is an estimate, not a diagnosis, and is interpreted alongside your clinical history.

Who Should Get This Screening

Adults where fracture risk estimation would change next steps (often 40–50+ or with risk factors).
Anyone with a fragility fracture (a fracture from a fall at standing height or less) should be assessed.
People taking long-term steroids or with conditions that affect bone health.
Postmenopausal people and older adults, especially with low body weight, smoking, or family history of fractures.

What to Expect

You answer questions about medical history and risk factors and may enter measurements like height and weight. Sometimes the tool is repeated after DXA to refine the risk estimate.

How to Prepare

Follow these tips to prepare for your screening

No special preparation. Having your height/weight and fracture history available is helpful.

Benefits

Helps target DXA testing to people most likely to benefit.
Supports personalized fracture prevention planning.
Non-invasive and quick.

Things to Consider

Risk estimates can change if health factors are missing or change over time.
Tools may under- or over-estimate risk for some individuals; clinicians interpret results in context.

Guideline Source: Osteoporosis fracture-risk assessment (FRAX/CAROC-style)

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.