DEXA Scans: Weighing Benefits and Risks for Osteoporosis Diagnosis and Beyond

Do You Need a DEXA Scan? Experts Weigh In on the Benefits and Risks Tucson, Arizona - A growing trend in the wellness industry has led to an increased interest in DEXA scans, also known as dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. These scans, once reserved for diagnosing osteoporosis, are now being marketed as a way to monitor overall health and longevity. In July 2022, a journalist underwent a DEXA scan at Canyon Ranch's Longevity8 program in Tucson, Arizona. The scan took approximately 15 minutes and provided detailed results on bone density, lean muscle mass, body fat percentage, and more. The clinician who administered the test explained that the scan uses two different energy levels to measure the absorption of x-rays by different tissues in the body. "I was surprised by how comprehensive the results were," said the journalist. "It was like having a detailed map of my body's health." Dr. Peter Attia, a well-known longevity expert, has been promoting DEXA scans as a valuable tool for monitoring overall health. "DEXA scans are an incredibly useful tool for assessing bone density and lean muscle mass," he said in an interview. "They can help identify potential issues before they become major problems." However, not all experts agree on the benefits of DEXA scans. Dr. Kathryn Sandberg, a professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School, expressed concerns about the overuse of these scans. "While DEXA scans are useful for diagnosing osteoporosis, there is limited evidence to support their use as a general wellness tool," she said. Background on DEXA scans reveals that they have been used in hospitals since the late 1980s to diagnose osteoporosis. In recent years, however, they have become more widely available at boutique clinics and luxury retreats. The American College of Radiology (ACR) has issued guidelines for the use of DEXA scans, recommending them only for patients with a high risk of osteoporosis or those who are undergoing treatment for the condition. However, some experts argue that these guidelines may not be sufficient to address the growing demand for DEXA scans as a wellness tool. As the popularity of DEXA scans continues to grow, experts are calling for more research on their effectiveness and safety. "We need to carefully evaluate the evidence before recommending these scans as a general wellness tool," said Dr. Sandberg. In conclusion, while DEXA scans may provide valuable insights into overall health, it is essential to approach them with caution and consider the potential risks and benefits. As the industry continues to evolve, experts will be closely monitoring the development of new technologies and guidelines for the use of these scans. Additional Resources: American College of Radiology (ACR) Guidelines for DEXA Scans National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) Information on DEXA Scans Peter Attia's Longevity Podcast on DEXA Scans *Reporting by Wired.*