DXA Scans: Your First Step in Detecting Osteoporosis
DXA Scans: Your First Step in Detecting Osteoporosis
Why It Matters
Detecting osteoporosis early through DXA scans can prevent future fractures and keep your bones strong.
Contents
- What is a DXA Scan?
- Who Should Get a DXA Scan?
- Interpreting DXA Results
What is a DXA Scan?
A DXA scan is a type of X-ray that measures bone density. It's the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and provides a clear picture of bone health.
Who Should Get a DXA Scan?
Women over 65 and men over 70 are typically recommended to have a DXA scan. Those with risk factors like a family history of osteoporosis or previous fractures should consider earlier testing. Regular monitoring helps in adjusting treatment plans effectively.
Interpreting DXA Results
DXA results are given as a T-score, which compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A T-score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis, guiding treatment decisions to prevent fractures.
FAQs
What is a DXA scan used for?
It measures bone density to assess osteoporosis risk.
Who needs a DXA scan?
Typically women over 65 and men over 70, or those with risk factors.
How are DXA scan results interpreted?
Results are given as a T-score; below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
Scan for Strong Bones
Regular DXA scans are vital in maintaining bone health and preventing fractures.
Additional References
- Genant HK, Wu CY, van Kuijk C, Nevitt MC. J Bone Miner Res 1993; 8:1137.
- Campbell SE, Phillips CD, Dubovsky E, et al. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 1995; 16:1385.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.