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FAQs - Bone Density (DEXA)

What is a DEXA bone densitometry exam?
What are the reasons for having a DEXA scan?
Is a DEXA scan safe?
What is osteoporosis?
How prevalent is the disease?
Am I at risk for osteoporosis?
What can be done to prevent osteoporosis?
Do you do body composition measurements?
 
What Is a DEXA Bone Densitometry Exam?
DEXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) is the gold standard for osteoporosis detection. Bone densitometry is a safe, painless study that measures the amount of bone mineral content in specific areas of the body. The exam uses small amounts of x-ray to produce images of the spine or wrist where most osteoporotic fractures occur. The x-ray is composed of two energy levels that are absorbed differently by bones. A computer determines from these differences how much bone mineral is present.
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What Are the Reasons For Having a DEXA Scan?

By measuring bone mineral density, a DEXA scan provides information on bone health that is used to:

  • Detect the presence of osteoporosis in men and women with particular risk factors
  • Screen for osteoporosis, particularly in women making decisions about hormone replacement therapy at menopause
  • Predict future fracture risk so prevention therapy can be started
  • Monitor bone density in those with low normal levels and in those with osteoporosis undergoing treatment
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Is a DEXA Scan Safe?
The amount of radiation a DEXA scan emits is only a fraction of that received during a standard chest x-ray. Although exposure is very low, be sure to inform the technologist if there is a chance of pregnancy.
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What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue which leads to reduced bone strength, poor bone quality and an increased risk of fractures, especially of the hip, spine and wrist. Often called the “quiet disease,” osteoporosis symptoms are rarely evident until significant bone loss has occurred. The disease, however, is treatable and preventable. Early diagnosis and monitoring through bone density testing allows for therapeutic intervention and has improved the prognosis for patients.
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How Prevalent Is the Disease?
The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that the disease poses a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans or 55% of people over age 50. Ten million people already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis. While women make up 80% of those with the disease, it is clearly not just a women’s issue. All adults should consider having a bone density test around age 35. This would provide an objective baseline against which future bone status can be compared.
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Am I at Risk For Osteoporosis?
Certain people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than others. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the following factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease and incurring bone fractures:
  • Personal history of fracture after age 50
  • Current low bone mass
  • Being female
  • Being thin and/or having a small frame
  • Advanced age
  • A family history of osteoporosis
  • Estrogen deficiency as a result of menopause, especially early or surgically induced
  • Abnormal absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea)
  • Anorexia nervosa
  • Low lifetime calcium intake
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Use of certain medications (corticosteroids, chemotherapy, anticonvulsants and others)
  • Presence of certain chronic medical conditions
  • Low testosterone levels in men
  • An inactive lifestyle
  • Current cigarette smoking
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Being Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at significant risk as well
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What Can Be Done to Prevent Osteoporosis?
By age 20, the average woman has acquired 98 percent of her skeletal mass. The best defense against developing osteoporosis later in life is to build strong bones during childhood and adolescence. The following lifestyle habits can optimize bone health and help prevent osteoporosis:
  • A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
  • Weight-bearing and resistance-training exercises
  • A healthy lifestyle with no smoking or excessive alcohol intake
  • Talking to one’s healthcare professional about bone health
  • Bone density testing and medication when appropriate
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Do You Do Body Composition Measurements?
This option is now available at our Bellevue site. Additional information will be posted soon.

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See About Your Exam/Bone Density (DEXA) for exam preparation and patient experience information.

For more information on osteoporosis and risk factors, contact the National Osteoporosis Foundation at www.nof.org.
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