What is the primary purpose of bone density screening with DEXA?

What is the primary purpose of bone density screening with DEXA?

• A. To identify bone density status and fracture risk.
• B. To diagnose cancer.
• C. To evaluate kidney function.
• D. To assess muscle mass.

Answer: (A)

The main goal of bone density screening with DEXA is to determine how dense the bones are and how likely fractures are. DEXA uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density at key sites such as the hip and spine. The result, often summarized as a T-score, compares a person’s bone density with that of a healthy young adult and helps classify bone health (normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis). This information directly informs risk of fracture and guides prevention or treatment decisions to reduce that risk. It isn’t used to diagnose cancer, assess kidney function, or measure muscle mass.

The main goal of bone density screening with DEXA is to determine how dense the bones are and how likely fractures are. DEXA uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density at key sites such as the hip and spine. The result, often summarized as a T-score, compares a person’s bone density with that of a healthy young adult and helps classify bone health (normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis). This information directly informs risk of fracture and guides prevention or treatment decisions to reduce that risk. It isn’t used to diagnose cancer, assess kidney function, or measure muscle mass.