Should I ask my GP for a DEXA scan?

As we get older, we hear a lot about the importance of protecting our bones.

And for women in particular, osteoporosis can become a very real concern after menopause.

So it’s understandable to think:

“Should I just ask my GP for a DEXA scan?”

A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density and is the standard imaging technique used when clinicians need to assess bone density.

But that does not mean every woman over 50 should automatically demand one.

UK NOGG guidance says the first step for a postmenopausal woman with a clinical risk factor for fragility fracture is usually a fracture-risk assessment, commonly using FRAX.

The result can then help guide whether a DEXA scan is needed.

Risk factors can include things such as:

A previous fragility fracture.

A parental hip fracture.

Long-term steroid use.

Smoking.

Certain medical conditions.

Low body weight.

Significant height loss.

And other individual factors.

So if you are worried about your bones, the better question for your GP may be:

“Can we assess my fracture risk, and do I have a reason to have a DEXA scan?”

That opens a more useful conversation than assuming the scan itself is the first step.

And if you have already had a fracture from a relatively minor fall, significant height loss or other strong risk factors, mention them clearly.

Those details matter.

"Don't just ask for a scan. Ask about your fracture risk and whether a DXA scan is appropriate for you."

- Danielle Frost

RESEARCH / USEFUL SOURCES

• NOGG FAQ: Who needs fracture-risk assessment?
• NOGG: Fracture risk assessment and BMD measurement