DEXA - Bone Density Scan
Osteoporosis means, literally, “porous bones,” and is a debilitating disease that can lead to bone fracture. More than 52 million Americans have low bone density and are at risk for osteoporosis— 80% are women. DEXA scans (which stands for Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) are an advanced test available for measuring bone density. If a loss of bone mass is discovered, especially early, patients can receive treatment to prevent breakage and further loss.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation’s recommendation that women over 65 should get a DEXA scan every two years to diagnose bone density loss and hopefully prevent osteoporosis.