Women with type 1 diabetes are more likely to develop osteoporosis than their counterparts without the disease. Researchers have not yet identified specific reasons for the link between type 1 diabetes and reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in women. However, reduced blood sugars and increased bone turnovers could be among the possible reasons. There is also a purported connection among elderly populations between lower levels of BMD and cardiovascular disease; cardiovascular disease is also a common complication of diabetes. Women who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes commonly begin reporting a greater number of bone fractures after the age of 20; the research all indicates that women with this diagnosis should be screened for osteoporosis and BMD levels, particularly closely during the onset of menopause.