Use of dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans: government position
Published 30 March 2026
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Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA also known as DXA) is an established medical imaging technique that uses low-dose ionising radiation to assess bone mineral density.
DEXA for medical purposes is permitted for the following uses:
- diagnosis of osteoporosis and osteopenia
- fracture risk assessment
- clinical evaluation of vertebral fractures and atypical femoral fractures
- monitoring of treatment efficacy
- medical research
All medical exposures involving ionising radiation are regulated under The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017 (IR(ME)R) and The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2018, which provides a framework to protect patients.
Guidance on Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations: implications for clinical practice in diagnostic imaging, interventional radiology and diagnostic nuclear medicine to support the delivery of medical DEXA and other radiological services has been published by the Royal College of Radiologists in partnership with other professional bodies.
While DEXA is a permitted practice for medical purposes, the non-medical use of DEXA for sports and wellness purposes is not justified under The Justification of Practices Involving Ionising Radiation Regulations 2004 (JoPIIRR). As a result, providing DEXA for non‑medical sports and wellness purposes is prohibited and any providers doing so are operating outside the JoPIIRR framework.
The UK government recognises increasing interest in DEXA for non-medical purposes, including:
- sports performance assessment
- general body composition analysis
- fitness profiling
As the justifying authority for England and Wales, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has launched a public consultation on whether DEXA use for sports and wellness purposes should be justified.
The UK government is consulting on behalf of the devolved governments. Accordingly, this consultation covers England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Responses to the consultation will be considered by the UK government and a summary of findings as part of the government’s response will be published in autumn 2026. The Department of Health and Social Care will then consider how to take forward a potential justification decision with Scottish ministers and the Department of Health in Northern Ireland, as the justifying authorities for Scotland and Northern Ireland respectively.
The UK government will continue to monitor emerging evidence and international practice to ensure that UK policy remains aligned with best practice in radiation protection and public health.