Whole Body DEXA Scan Procedure, Benefits, Cost & What to Expect

A whole body DEXA scan gives you more than just bone health. It measures fat, muscle, and bone density across your entire body. In about 10 to 20 minutes, you will get a clear picture of your body composition. This guide explains how the scan works, what the results mean, the cost of a DEXA scan in Dubai, and how to prepare. With this knowledge, you will know exactly what to expect.

What a Whole Body DEXA Scan Measures

The whole body DEXA scan uses dual energy X ray absorptiometry, often called DXA or DEXA. It is one of the most accurate tools available to measure both bone mineral density and body composition.

During the scan, the system provides detailed insights into:

• Bone mineral density (BMD), which helps in identifying conditions such as osteoporosis or osteopenia.
• Lean body mass, which includes muscles and organs.
• Fat mass, both overall and region specific.
• Regional composition, with results for arms, legs, trunk, and abdominal areas.

Doctors often use T scores and Z scores from the scan report. A T score compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. A Z score compares your bone density with people of your same age and gender. These values help to understand fracture risk and bone health status.

The DEXA Scan Procedure: What to Expect

The procedure of a whole body DEXA scan is quick and straightforward.

1. You will be asked to lie flat on a padded table.
2. The DEXA scanner arm will move slowly above your body from head to toe.
3. You must remain as still as possible during the scan for accurate results.
4. The process is completely painless and requires no injections.

Most full body scans take between 10 to 20 minutes. Preparation is simple. You may be asked to:

• Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers or buttons.
• Remove jewelry, belts, or watches.
• Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test in some cases.

A major advantage of this test is its safety. The radiation dose is extremely low, much less than that of a standard chest X ray. For most people, it is very safe. However, it is not recommended during pregnancy.

Benefits and Clinical Uses of Whole Body DEXA

Bone Health and Fracture Risk

One of the main uses of a whole body DEXA scan is the early detection of osteoporosis and osteopenia. By identifying weak bones early, treatment can begin before fractures occur. The scan also helps doctors track how bones change over time, especially for patients on treatment for bone loss.

Body Composition and Health Insights

The DEXA scan is more than a bone test. It gives a clear breakdown of fat and muscle in the body. This is useful for:

• Tracking obesity and related health risks.
• Monitoring changes in fat and lean mass during weight loss or fitness programs.
• Helping athletes understand muscle gain, fat distribution, and performance readiness.

Other Uses and Research Applications

DEXA scans are also used in research and clinical settings. They are valuable in:

• Detecting muscle loss from aging or disease, known as sarcopenia.
• Assessing patients with endocrine disorders that affect body composition.
• Studying fat distribution patterns such as android fat around the abdomen and gynoid fat around the hips and thighs.

Cost of DEXA Scan in Dubai 

The cost of a whole body DEXA scan generally ranges between AED 500 and AED 1700, depending on the clinic, the scan type, and the level of analysis included. Some diagnostic centers may offer lower promotional prices or detailed reporting packages for a slightly higher fee.

At Amax Healthcare, DEXA scan packages are designed to assess bone density, muscle mass, and body fat composition with high accuracy:

What Affects the Price of a DEXA Scan in Dubai?

DEXA scan prices vary based on:

• Whether a full body composition report (fat, muscle, and bone ratio) is included
  
  
• If specialist interpretation and recommendations are part of the package
  
  
• The report delivery time and the clinic’s diagnostic technology
  
  

Amax Healthcare offers accurate, affordable, and quick DEXA scans for both bone health and body composition analysis in Dubai.

How to Pick the Best DEXA Scan Center

When choosing a center, it is important to ask these questions:

1. Does the scan include both bone density and body composition results?
2. Will a physician provide a full interpretation of the report?
3. How quickly will results be available?
4. What technology and scanner are used for the test?

These questions help you choose a center that provides accurate results and professional care.

Interpreting DEXA Results: T Score, Z Score and Body Metrics

Understanding your DEXA scan results is as important as taking the scan itself.

• T Score: Compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult.
  • Normal: -1.0 or above
  • Osteopenia: -1.0 to -2.5
  • Osteoporosis: -2.5 or below
• Z Score: Compares your bone density with others of the same age, sex, and size. A Z score below -2.0 may suggest a secondary cause of bone loss.

Apart from bone health, whole body scans also show:

• Body fat percentage and distribution.
• Lean mass index for different regions.
• Balance of fat and muscle between left and right sides of the body.

These values can be especially useful for athletes and patients undergoing weight management or rehabilitation programs.

Safety, Limitations and Who Should Avoid It

Whole body DEXA scans are safe for most people. The radiation dose is very low, about the same as one or two days of natural background radiation.

Still, there are certain limitations:

• Pregnant women should avoid the test.
• Extremely high or low body sizes may affect scan accuracy.
• Hydration levels at the time of testing can slightly change lean mass readings.
• To track progress accurately, repeat scans should be done on the same machine.

While these limitations exist, the scan remains one of the most reliable tools for bone density and body composition measurement.

FAQs – They Ask, You Answer

What is measured by a whole body DEXA scan?
It measures bone mineral density, fat mass, lean mass, and body composition in detail.

Do I need to stop calcium or supplements before my DEXA scan?
Some clinics advise avoiding calcium for 24 hours, but always follow the instructions given by your clinic.

How long does a whole body DEXA take?
Most scans are completed within 10 to 20 minutes.

Is DEXA safe for pregnant women?
No, it is not recommended during pregnancy because of radiation exposure.

How do doctors use T scores and Z scores?
T scores help diagnose osteoporosis, while Z scores identify bone health compared to people of the same age group.

Can DEXA detect osteoporosis early?
Yes, it is one of the most accurate tools for early detection.

How soon will I get my DEXA results in Dubai?
Results are usually available the same day or within 24 to 48 hours depending on the clinic.

Does whole body DEXA cost more than spine or hip only?
Yes, because it includes body composition and covers the entire body.

Can DEXA measure fat and muscle accurately?
Yes, it is considered one of the most reliable methods for body composition analysis.

What is the CPT code for whole body DEXA scan?
The commonly used CPT code is 77080 for axial bone density, but it may vary for whole body scans.

Why a Whole Body DEXA Scan is Worth Considering

A whole body DEXA scan offers much more than a bone check. It provides a complete view of your bone health, muscle mass, and body fat distribution in a single test. With quick results, low radiation, and wide availability in Dubai, it has become a trusted tool for patients, athletes, and families who want clear answers about their health.

If you are planning a scan, choose a clinic that offers a full report, certified technology, and professional interpretation. By doing so, you can make informed decisions about your health, fitness, and future wellbeing with confidence.

Book Your DEXA Scan Easily in Dubai

A whole body DEXA scan gives you clear insights into bone, fat, and muscle health. If you are looking for a center that is affordable, nearby, and trusted, Amax Healthcare is here to help. Through Amax, you can book appointments for DEXA scans in Dubai and across the UAE with leading diagnostic centers. You also get access to reasonable prices, the nearest clinics, and providers you can rely on, making your health journey simpler and more confident.

👉 Take the next step and schedule your DEXA scan through Amax today.