When it comes to monitoring your bone density or body composition, a DEXA scan is one of the most accurate and reliable diagnostic tests available. Whether you’re concerned about osteoporosis, need to calculate your body fat percentage, or monitor changes in bone density over time, understanding how often you should get a DEXA scan is valuable.
Here, we’ll discuss what a DEXA scan is, who requires having one, how often a person is recommended to have it, and what may influence having them more frequently.
What Is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a quick, painless examination that uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition (lean and fat mass). It’s most commonly applied to:
- Diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis
- Assess fracture risk
- Track bone loss or gain over a period of time
- Measure body fat percentage and muscle mass
- Track the effects of osteoporosis drugs
While regular X-rays provide only rough estimates, a DEXA scan provides accurate measurements, and thus it is a valuable tool for early detection and long-term monitoring of bone-related diseases.
Who Needs a DEXA Scan?
Your doctor will recommend a DEXA scan if you are one or more of the following:
- Women aged ≥65 or postmenopausal women with a risk factor
- Men aged ≥70 or young men with an increased risk for bone loss
- Individuals who have a previous history of fracture, especially because of low trauma
- Individuals with a condition that affects bones (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease)
- Individuals consuming medications that deplete bones (e.g., corticosteroids)
- Individuals with family history of osteoporosis
- Athletes or individuals undergoing changes in fitness requesting body composition assessment
If you are not certain whether or not you should undergo a DEXA scan, speak with your healthcare provider to assess your risk.
How Often Should You Get a DEXA Scan?
For Bone Density Screening
DEXA frequency for bone density is determined by age, risk factors, and previous results:
1. Healthy Adults (Baseline Screening)
Women 65 years and older and men 70 years and older: Every 2 years, or as recommended
Postmenopausal women under the age of 65 with risk factors: Baseline scan, then every 2–3 years
Men under the age of 70 with risk factors: As advised by a physician
2. Osteopenia diagnosis
If your first DEXA scan shows osteopenia (low bone density but not osteoporosis), repeat scans will occasionally be needed every 1–2 years to monitor additional loss.
3. Osteoporosis diagnosis
Once diagnosed with osteoporosis, DEXA scans are typically recommended every 1–2 years to monitor bone loss and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
4. People on Bone-Affecting Medications
If you’re taking medications like bisphosphonates or steroids, your doctor may order a scan annually or more frequently, depending on your condition.
For Body Composition Analysis
A DEXA scan is also used to track fat mass, lean muscle mass, and visceral fat. It is especially well-liked by:
Fitness enthusiasts
Those undergoing weight loss or body recomposition protocols
Recommended Frequency:
Every 3–6 months, if tracking fitness goals or medical weight loss
Once per year for general health surveillance
Depending on how closely you must track changes. Since body composition alters slowly, more frequent tests (e.g., quarterly) provide better longitudinal tracking.
Factors That Influence Scan Frequency
Several factors can impact how often you must undergo a DEXA scan:
1. Age
Bone loss accelerates with increasing age, particularly after age 50. Older individuals may require more frequent monitoring.
2. Medical History
Arthritis, thyroid disorders, or gastrointestinal illness (e.g., celiac, Crohn’s) can affect bone and require closer monitoring.
3. Medications
Chronic therapy with corticosteroids or anti-seizure medications can lead to bone density loss.
4. Family History
A family history of osteoporosis or fractures increases your risk, and this might necessitate more frequent scanning.
5. Previous Scan Results
If your bone density is decreasing or there is evidence that treatment has improved, the scanning interval can be reduced accordingly.
What Happens During a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan is quick and painless:
- You will lie on an open, flat table fully dressed.
- The scanner moves around your body, focusing on the hip, spine, or whole body (for body composition)
- The exam lasts 10–20 minutes.
- You receive very little radiation exposure, much less than a standard X-ray.
Results are interpreted by a radiologist and typically reported to your doctor, who will explain what they are and what, if anything, to do in response to them.
How to Prepare for a DEXA Scan
- Avoid calcium supplements 24 hours prior to the test.
- Wear loose, soft clothing that is not metal or zippered.
- Let the technologist know if you have had a recent contrast imaging (like a barium test or CT scan).
- Inform your physician if you are pregnant.
Last Thoughts
Your frequency of DEXA scanning depends on your health profile, risks, and medical history. For the average healthy person, 2–3 years is sufficient, but patients with risks for bone loss or treatment might need yearly assessments.
If you’ve been searching for a DEXA scan near you, make sure the clinic uses the latest technology and provides detailed, accurate reporting. Discuss your scan results with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure appropriate follow-up and care.
Don’t wait until a fracture happens—be proactive about your bone health. A simple DEXA scan can make a world of difference.
