How often should I have a DEXA scan?

It depends on your first result and your risk. Bone density changes slowly, so scans less than about 2 years apart rarely show a reliable change. As a guide:

• Normal bone density and no new risk factors: a repeat scan after several years is usually enough. Your report says when.
• Low bone density (osteopenia): a follow-up scan after about 2 years.
• Starting or taking a medicine that affects your bones, such as corticosteroids or some hormone treatments, or after a recent fracture: often sooner, as your doctor advises.

A first scan is most useful from 65, or from 50 if you have a higher risk of bone loss. Swiss doctors review your result, and your report explains when to scan again.