About DEXA Scan
The Women’s Diagnostic Center at Methodist Hospital offers DEXA Scan services four days a week for faster appointment scheduling.

What is a DEXA Scan?
A Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, or DEXA, Scan is a leading type of bone density scanning technology called bone mineral densitometry. The test measures how many minerals are packed into a segment of bone to determine if you have osteoporosis, or are at risk of osteoporosis.

How does the DEXA Scan test work?
DEXA Scans use special X-rays to measure how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are packed into a segment of bone. The higher your mineral content, the denser your bones; and the denser your bones, the stronger they are and the less likely they are to break.

Fast and comfortable, DEXA Scans provide accurate results by measuring the bone density at your hip or spine – sites that are most likely to break due to osteoporosis. During the five to 10 minute test, you lie on a padded platform while a mechanical arm-like imaging device passes over your body without ever touching you. The test emits some radiation, but only about one-tenth of that emitted during a chest X-ray.

When is the right time to have a DEXA Scan?
The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends routine bone density screenings if:

• You’re a woman age 65 or older
• You’re 60 and at increased risk of osteoporosis

Women below the age of 50 may also be at increased risk of osteoporosis if they have a history of:

• Long-term steroid use
• Endocrine diseases, including hyperparathyroidism
• Asthma

Men are also susceptible to osteoporosis and can have increased risk factors.

Your doctor can recommend the best screening interval for you based on your personal medical history and osteoporosis risk factors.

Some risk factors for osteoporosis include:
Age – Osteoporosis risk factors increase with age because our bones become weaker as we get older.

Race – Individuals of white or of Southeast Asian descent are at greater risk. African American and Hispanic men and women have a lower, but still significant, risk.

Additional risk factors are:

• low body weight
• a personal history of fractures
• a family history of osteoporosis
• using certain medications that can cause bone loss

Methodist Hospital has been caring for South Philadelphia since 1892. For a physician or referral, please call 1-800-JEFF-NOW, or use the online appointment request form. To schedule tests or procedures, call 215-952-1234.