Dual energy xray absorptiometry (DEXA) is an imaging test that uses xrays to determine how much calcium is in the bone. It is more often used to diagnose osteoporosis. In general, the more dense the bone, the stronger it is and the less likely it will break.

Reasons for a Dexa scan

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Family history of osteoporosis

• Weight loss

• Hormonal changes in the body

• A family history of bone fracture

• Early menopause or postmenopause

Risk Factor

• Gender (females are more prone to developing osteoporosis than males)

• Ethnicity (Caucasian and Asians are more likely than African Americans to develop osteoporosis)

• Inactivity

• Alcohol abuse

• smoking

• Family history of osteoporosis

• Calcium deficiency