DEXA Scan
A low-radiation imaging test that precisely measures bone density, body fat percentage, and lean muscle mass to guide weight management.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a quick, painless scan that uses very low levels of X-rays to measure your body composition — how much fat, muscle, and bone you have, and where it is distributed. It is one of the most accurate ways to track changes in your body during a weight loss programme.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is a medical imaging modality that uses two X-ray beams at different energy levels to differentiate between bone mineral, lean soft tissue, and adipose tissue. Originally developed for osteoporosis assessment, DEXA now provides gold-standard whole-body composition analysis with a precision error of approximately 1–2% for total body fat percentage, making it superior to BIA and skinfold calipers for longitudinal monitoring.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Tracking weight alone on a scale does not reveal whether you are losing fat or valuable muscle. A DEXA scan gives Dr. Joseph Wang and our Accord Medical team a precise baseline and progress map, ensuring your weight loss plan preserves lean mass while targeting fat — critical for long-term metabolic health.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.