A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) scan measures bone mineral density, most commonly at the hip and spine, and is the standard test for diagnosing osteoporosis and estimating fracture risk.
| Facility | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi | Private | Dedicated DEXA machine; part of osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment programme |
| MP Shah Hospital | Private | Recently installed DEXA machine specifically to address bone health screening gaps |
| Coptic Hospital | Private | Offers dedicated Bone Mineral Density (BMD) testing |
| Rayhaan Healthcare | Private | Markets a dedicated Bone DEXA Scan service in Nairobi |
| Diagnostic/wellness packages (e.g. Meditest) | Private | DEXA bundled into senior-citizen health screening packages |
DEXA remains a relatively specialised service in Kenya, offered mainly by a handful of hospitals with dedicated equipment rather than being universally available. Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi has invested in a Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning machine as part of its diagnosis and treatment programme for osteoporosis. MP Shah Hospital has also introduced a DEXA machine to address Kenya's growing bone health crisis, enabling early detection of osteoporosis and timely intervention to prevent fractures. Coptic Hospital has similarly added a dedicated bone density machine to its diagnostic offering.
DEXA is often bundled into wellness or "senior citizen" health-check packages alongside a chest X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, mammogram, and vitamin D testing, which can work out cheaper than booking the scan as a standalone item. Because DEXA uses a very low radiation dose, no special preparation is required beyond avoiding calcium supplements on the day of the exam and wearing clothing without metal fasteners.
