MONDAY, July 28 (HealthDay News) -- Calculating a woman's bone mineral density appears to shed light on her risk for breast cancer.

A new study has found that high bone mineral density (BMD) predicts a greater likelihood of developing breast cancer, independent of how high her risk is on the often-used Gail model.

The two measurements together might be used in tandem to better predict breast cancer risk, the researchers said.

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Scottsdale Healthcare’s Women’s Health Services is making it easier for busy women in the Phoenix area to get their health screenings done.

The best screening for osteoporosis is done by X-ray, to provide a bone-density reading of specific areas (spine, hip and wrist; the areas most likely affected by osteoporosis). Other tests traditionally given to patients are an ultrasound or CT scan to measure bone density. A new test, created by the WHO (World Health Organization), is being used to calculate a person's risk of bone fractures. This calculation is done by using the bone-density test results, as well as assessing other risk factors (such as, alcohol and tobacco use, thyroid disease or previous fractures).

By Amanda Gardner

EmpowHer's HealthDay Reporter

One bone mineral density test can accurately predict a woman's chance of spinal fractures 15 years down the line, new research shows.

And, according to the largest and longest prospective study of osteoporosis ever, women who had a spinal fracture at the beginning of the study had four times the risk of sustaining another fracture later on.