A DEXA scan can check the strength of your bones and your risk of breaking a bone.
A DEXA scan can check the strength of your bones and your risk of breaking a bone. It uses a very low-dose X-ray to measure the thickness (density) of your bones.
A DEXA scan is often done before you start any cancer treatments that may increase your risk of bone loss. You may also have scans during and after your cancer treatment.
It is a simple, painless procedure. You will be asked to lie down on a table for about 15 minutes while your spine and hips are scanned.
The result of your DEXA scan will be a special number called a T-score:
A diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis means that you must start looking after your bones, as you are at increased risk of breaking a bone (fracture). You may also need to start taking special supplements or bone-strengthening drugs. If you are prescribed bone-strengthening drugs, your doctor will probably send you for a DEXA scan every 2 years.
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