DEXA Bone Density (Hip & Spine)

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan measuring bone mineral density at the hip and lumbar spine, the two skeletal sites most predictive of osteoporotic fracture risk. The scan produces T-scores and Z-scores for comparison against healthy reference populations, with very low radiation exposure.

The DEXA bone density scan at ATA Medical uses dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to quantify bone mineral density at the proximal femur (hip) and the lumbar spine (L1-L4). These two sites are chosen because they are the most clinically relevant for predicting fragility fractures — hip fractures carry the highest morbidity and mortality among osteoporotic fractures, while vertebral compression fractures are the most common. The technology passes two X-ray beams of different energy levels through the bone being measured. Bone and soft tissue absorb the beams differently, allowing the system to isolate bone mineral content and calculate areal density in grams per square centimetre. The radiation dose is minimal — typically less than one-tenth of a standard chest X-ray — making the scan suitable for regular monitoring without meaningful cumulative exposure. Results are expressed as a T-score, which compares the measured density against peak bone mass in a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex, and a Z-score, which compares against age-matched peers. World Health Organization thresholds classify a T-score above minus 1.0 as normal, between minus 1.0 and minus 2.5 as osteopenia, and below minus 2.5 as osteoporosis. These thresholds, combined with clinical risk factors, feed into fracture risk calculators that help guide decisions about exercise programmes, dietary supplementation, or pharmaceutical intervention. The scan itself takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The participant lies on a padded table while the scanner arm passes over the measurement sites — there is no enclosed tunnel, no noise, and no discomfort. No special preparation is required beyond removing metal objects from the scan area. DEXA is particularly valuable when repeated at the same facility over time, as it can detect changes in bone density as small as one to two percent per year. This makes it a useful tool for tracking the effectiveness of strength training programmes, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, or hormonal therapies aimed at preserving bone mass. ATA Medical's DEXA service is available at all locations except Jurong, and results can be integrated into a broader screening package or delivered as a standalone report with a doctor consultation.