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Bone densitometry is a method of determining bone mass loss by measuring radiation absorption through the skeleton. A bone densitometer uses painless radiographic imaging to evaluate and measure the density of bone in your spine, hips or forearms. Age, weight, sex and ethnic background are also considered helpful to determine your age-related fracture risk.
Osteoporosis is defined as a disease of bone loss leading to an increased risk of fractures such as your hip, spine, and wrist. This test assesses your risk and treatments that can help your doctor determine if dietary changes, weight-bearing exercise or medication may be helpful in preventing or help treat osteoporosis.
Men as well as women are affected by osteoporosis; however, women are at five times’ greater risk than men of developing the condition.
About 11% of men and 27% of women aged 60 years or more are osteoporotic, and 42% of men and 51% of women are osteopenic.
Avoid clothing with snaps, buttons, and zippers. Metal and plastic in the area being scanned will interfere with the exam. Allow 1⁄2 hour for your appointment.
There are no risks associated with the bone densitometry DXA scan.
You should not have this test, however, if you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant.