Human: My doctor says that I should get a bone density test. What is that, and why is it important? Assistant: 
A bone density test measures the amount of mineral content in your bones. It is an important screening tool for detecting osteoporosis, which is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Osteoporosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, diet, and lifestyle. If you have osteoporosis, it can cause fractures, pain, and other health problems.