Question 1

What is a DEXA scan?

Accepted Answer

A DEXA scan is a non-invasive imaging test that evaluates bone density and body composition. It measures muscle mass, body fat, and visceral fat while identifying bone loss and assessing your risk of osteoporosis and other chronic health conditions.

Question 2

At what age should women get a DEXA scan?

Accepted Answer

Many women should begin DEXA screening at age 65. Women between ages 50 and 64 who have risk factors for osteoporosis may benefit from earlier screening based on their healthcare provider's recommendation.

Question 3

Which women should be screened earlier than age 65?

Accepted Answer

Women ages 50 to 64 with one or more osteoporosis risk factors may need earlier DEXA screening. While some risks, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, healthy lifestyle choices like quitting smoking and maintaining proper nutrition may help reduce osteoporosis risk.

Question 4

What risk factors increase the likelihood of osteoporosis?

Accepted Answer

Common osteoporosis risk factors include calcium or vitamin D deficiency, excessive alcohol use, smoking, family history, menopause or hysterectomy, low body weight, poor diet, lack of physical activity, recent fractures, spinal fractures, intestinal disorders, multiple sclerosis, frequent falls, loss of height, and certain medications such as some antidepressants, diabetes medications, and steroid hormones.

Question 5

How does menopause affect bone density?

Accepted Answer

After menopause, estrogen levels decline, causing bone mass to decrease. This makes bones more fragile and increases the risk of fractures, balance problems, and falls, even during routine daily activities.

Question 6

How often should women get a DEXA scan?

Accepted Answer

Many postmenopausal women should consider having a DEXA scan every two years. Women with multiple osteoporosis risk factors may need more frequent screening based on their physician's recommendations.

Question 7

What happens during a DEXA scan?

Accepted Answer

During a DEXA scan, you should wear comfortable clothing without metal and remove items such as jewelry, eyeglasses, and clothing containing metal. You will lie on a padded table while a scanning arm passes over your body to measure bone density and body composition. The procedure is painless, non-invasive, and typically takes only a short time.

Question 8

How can early detection help prevent fractures?

Accepted Answer

Early detection of osteoporosis allows you and your healthcare provider to make lifestyle changes, improve nutrition, adjust medications, and implement fall-prevention strategies before significant bone loss leads to fractures.

Question 9

How can a DEXA scan provide valuable body composition insights?

Accepted Answer

In addition to measuring bone density, a DEXA scan evaluates muscle mass and body fat distribution, including visceral fat. These insights can help assess your risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers while supporting personalized nutrition and exercise plans.

When Should Women Get A DEXA Scan?