Published on 14 July 2026
A DEXA scan or Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry scan is a quick, safe and reliable imaging test used to assess bone health and body composition. Most commonly used to diagnose osteoporosis and evaluate fracture risk, it can also provide detailed measurements of bone density.
Whether you have risk factors for bone loss, concerns about your overall health, or have been referred by a healthcare professional, a DEXA scan can offer valuable insights to help guide treatment, lifestyle changes and future care decisions. Here's everything you need to know about how a DEXA scan works, who may benefit from having one, and what the results can reveal.
Who needs a DEXA scan?
This scan may be recommended if you have a risk of developing a bone condition such as osteoporosis.
What is a DEXA scan?
The scan uses low dose dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to assess the density of your bones.
When to have a DEXA scan
The scan is generally advised for women aged 65 and over, for men aged 70 and over, and for younger adults with risk factors such as previous broken bones, high-risk medication such as steroids, and early menopause.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
A scan usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. The quick scan is non-invasive, painless and usually involves you lying on your back while the scanner moves above you.
How is a DEXA scan performed?
The scan is usually performed by a radiographer, a specialist in taking X-ray images. You will need to keep still as the large scanning arms moves across your body. A narrow beam of low-dose X-rays will be passed through the part of your body being examined.
What are the DEXA scan referral criteria?
The criteria include your age, fragility fractures, medication use, conditions causing bone loss such as premature menopause, malabsorption diseases, chronic kidney/liver disease, and severe anorexia nervosa.
Can a DEXA scan show a fracture?
Through its specialised low-radiation imaging process the scan can detect certain fractures – particularly in the spine.
While primarily used to measure bone density and predict future fracture risk, the technology can identify existing spine fractures.
Does a DEXA scan show arthritis?
The scan is not designed to reveal arthritis. However, severe spinal arthritis may make DEXA results harder to interpret – AI is beginning to show DEXA scan potential in identifying joint changes.
Can a DEXA scan show cancer?
The scan cannot directly detect or diagnose tumours. Images produced lack the detail needed to identify soft tissue tumours, metastases or early cancerous bone destruction.
How can I access a DEXA scan at Benenden Hospital?
To arrange a DEXA scan at our hospital, you’ll need a referral from a healthcare professional. This could be your own GP, through our Private GP service or from a consultant or osteopath. Please note, it is not suitable for anyone under the age of 20 or those who have had a baby in the last 12 months.
For more information, or to book, please contact our Imaging department on 01580 362887.