Which of the following is an advantage of DXA?

Which of the following is an advantage of DXA?

• A. Low radiation dose
• B. Very long scan time
• C. High cost and limited availability
• D. Poor image resolution

Answer: (A)

The key advantage of DXA is its very low radiation dose, which makes it safe to use for initial screening and for repeated bone density testing over time. This low exposure allows clinicians to monitor changes in bone density without accumulating significant radiation risk, a major benefit for patients at risk of osteoporosis. DXA scans are also quick and widely available, but those aspects are secondary to the safety profile. The other statements describe downsides—long scan times, higher cost and limited availability, and poorer image resolution—not advantages, so they don’t compare favorably to the safety and practicality of DXA.

The key advantage of DXA is its very low radiation dose, which makes it safe to use for initial screening and for repeated bone density testing over time. This low exposure allows clinicians to monitor changes in bone density without accumulating significant radiation risk, a major benefit for patients at risk of osteoporosis. DXA scans are also quick and widely available, but those aspects are secondary to the safety profile. The other statements describe downsides—long scan times, higher cost and limited availability, and poorer image resolution—not advantages, so they don’t compare favorably to the safety and practicality of DXA.