Lab test · Bone health
Bone density scan (DXA)
A DXA bone density scan measures bone mineral density to assess osteoporosis and fracture risk. Who should have one and how T-scores are read.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
What it is
MedlinePlus describes a bone density scan as a low-dose X-ray, usually of the hip and spine, that measures bone mineral density.
How results are reported
Results are commonly given as a T-score, comparing your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. Lower scores indicate lower bone density and higher fracture risk.
Who it is for
The USPSTF recommends osteoporosis screening for women aged 65 and older and for younger postmenopausal women at increased risk. Evidence for routine screening in men is less settled.
Factors that can affect the result
- Age
- Menopause
- Low body weight
- Smoking and alcohol
- Steroid medicines
- Family history
Questions people commonly ask
- Is a DXA scan safe?
- It uses a very low radiation dose, lower than a standard chest X-ray.
Related biomarkers
Related topics
Keep your health results in one place
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- Bone Density Scan. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- Osteoporosis to Prevent Fractures: Screening. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, 2025.