1. The Importance of Bone Health

Bones are important supporting structures in the human body, not only protecting internal organs, but also participating in functions such as hematopoiesis and mineral storage. With age, bone health problems, mainly osteoporosis, gradually become apparent and become a global health problem. According to the Ministry of Health, about 30% of women over the age of 50 suffer from osteoporosis in Hong Kong, compared to 15% of men. This indicates that bone health problems cannot be ignored.dexa

1. Bone Structure and Function

Bones are made up of the bone cortex, which provides strength, and the trabeculae, which absorb shock. Bones are also involved in the metabolism of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which produce blood cells through the bone marrow. Healthy bones effectively support the body and avoid the risk of fractures.

2. Factors Affecting Bone Health: Age, Gender, and Lifestyle

Age is the biggest risk factor for bone health, especially in women who experience lower estrogen levels and accelerated bone loss after menopause. In addition, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake can also affect bone health.

3. Strategies for maintaining bone health

To maintain bone health, you need to combine measures such as:

• Balanced diet: Get enough calcium and vitamin D, including dairy products and dark green vegetables.
• Regular exercise: Weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, running) can help increase bone density.
• Avoid bad habits: quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
• Routine check-ups: The scans monitor for changes in bone density.

2. Scanning: The Gold Standard in Bone Densitometry

Scanning (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is currently the most accurate method for assessing bone density and is widely used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. The principle is to measure bone mineral content with two different energy X-rays.

1. Scanning Principles and Benefits

The scan will use low-dose x-rays to measure soft tissue and bone resorption separately and calculate bone density. Compared to other tests, scanning has the following advantages:

• High accuracy: The error rate is less than 1%.
• Quick and painless: The whole process takes only 10-15 minutes.
• Low radiation: The radiation dose is only one-tenth of that of a normal X-ray.

2. Scanning of different parts: lumbar spine, hip joint

The lumbar spine and hip are prone to fractures, so scans usually focus on the lumbar spine and hip joint. A lumbar spine scan can reflect changes in bone density in the spine, while a hip scan can predict the risk of femoral neck fractures.

3. Security and accuracy of scanning

The radiation dose of the scan is very low (about 1 to 10 microsieverts) and much lower than the daily ambient radiation (about 3000 microsieverts per year). Its accuracy has been verified by numerous clinical studies and is the gold standard for bone density testing.

3. Scanning Process and Precautions

By understanding the scanning process, you can complete the inspection smoothly and get accurate results.

1. Scheduling Scans: Choosing the Right Healthcare Facility

In Hong Kong, scanning services are available in both public and private clinics. It is recommended to choose a facility that is equipped with modern equipment and operated by a professional radiologist. In terms of fees, public hospitals range from around HK$500 to HK$800, while private clinics range from HK$1,000 to HK$2,000.

2. Preparation Before the Exam: Avoid influencing factors such as calcium tablets

To get accurate results, you should avoid taking calcium tablets or drugs containing barium and bismuth 24 hours before the test. Wear loose clothing and avoid metal accessories.

3. Inspection Process: Comfort and Fit

During the examination, you should lie flat on the scanning bed and stay still. The technician adjusts the device's position, and the scanning process does not require any injection or special preparation.

4. Interpreting and Applying Scan Results

The scan report contains the T and Z values and must be interpreted by a professional doctor.dexa scan

1. Clinical significance of T and Z values

The T-value represents the difference in bone density compared to healthy youth, while the Z-value reflects the comparison of the same age group. According to WHO standards:

2. Reading skills to scan reports

The report also includes a fracture risk assessment (FRAX score) to help predict the likelihood of fracture in the next 10 years. It is recommended to discuss the results with your doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan.

3. Follow-up Management of Scan Results: Treatment and Follow-up

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend medication (such as bisphosphonates) and regular follow-up scans (every 1 to 2 years).

5. Scan and decipher common myths

There are many misconceptions about scanning, but they are being clarified one by one.

1. Is the scanned radiation dose safe?

The radiation dose of the scan is very low, equivalent to 2 hours of ambient radiation on an airplane, and is harmless to the human body.

2. Is the cost of scanning reasonable?

While private clinics are more expensive, scans are still cost-effective compared to other screening methods, given their accuracy and clinical value.

3. How do I schedule a scan?

General recommendations:

• Women over 65 years of age or men over 70 years of age: every 2 years.
• High-risk group (e.g., long-term use of steroids): once a year.
• For normal results: the interval can be extended to 3-5 years.

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