Global Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry Market - 2025-2033

The global Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market reached US$ 252.9 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 387.5 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 2025-2033.

Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique used primarily for assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition. It works by measuring the absorption of X-rays at two different energy levels as they pass through the body. This method allows for precise differentiation between bone tissue and soft tissue (such as muscle and fat) based on how they absorb X-rays. The system uses two X-ray beams with different energy levels to scan the body. The difference in absorption between the two energy levels allows for accurate measurement of bone density and soft tissue composition.

The market demand for Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is shaped by various global trends and needs in healthcare, particularly in the fields of bone health, body composition analysis and osteoporosis management. For instance, according to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, in the U.S., approximately 10 million people have osteoporosis, and an estimated 44 million people have low bone density (osteopenia), with a projected increase as the population ages. Osteoporosis is one of the leading causes of bone fractures among the elderly. As the global population ages, the demand for DEXA scans for osteoporosis screening has significantly increased.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Rising prevalence of osteoporosis and bone disorders

The rising prevalence of osteoporosis and bone disorders is significantly driving the growth of the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market and is expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone mineral density (BMD), leads to weaker bones and an increased risk of fractures. It is especially common among elderly populations, particularly post-menopausal women.

For instance, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), approximately 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 years and 1 in 5 men will experience osteoporotic fractures in their lifetime. Moreover, according to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, in the United States, nearly 10 million people suffer from osteoporosis, and an additional 44 million are at risk due to low bone density. This wide prevalence underscores the need for early detection and regular screening, which boosts the DEXA demand.

As populations age globally, the demand for bone health screening increases. By 2050, the number of people aged 60 and older is expected to rise to over 2 billion according to the World Health Organization, with many in this group at risk of osteoporosis. Elderly individuals are more likely to develop bone health issues such as osteopenia or osteoporosis, driving the demand for DEXA scans for early diagnosis and monitoring.

High cost of the DEXA devices

The high cost of DEXA devices is a significant barrier to the growth of the Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market. The price of a DEXA machine typically ranges from $20,000 to over $100,000, depending on the model, features, and brand. This steep initial investment makes it difficult for smaller healthcare facilities, rural clinics, and hospitals in low-income regions to afford such equipment. Small clinics and primary care practices may find it financially unfeasible to invest in DEXA machines, especially in regions with limited healthcare funding or where bone density screening is not yet a widespread practice.

Aside from the initial purchase price, operational costs (such as electricity, staff training, and regular maintenance) add to the burden. Maintaining a DEXA machine requires skilled personnel, specialized calibration, and periodic servicing, which further increases operational expenses for healthcare providers. For instance, healthcare centers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) may struggle to keep up with maintenance requirements, which leads to underutilization or failure of DEXA equipment.

The high cost of DEXA machines also gives an advantage to alternative technologies such as ultrasound-based bone densitometers or quantitative computed tomography (QCT), which are less expensive and increasingly used for screening. For instance, ultrasound-based devices are more affordable (with prices often under $10,000) and offer a radiation-free alternative, making them an attractive option for healthcare providers on a budget.

Segment Analysis

The global Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market is segmented based on product type, portability, application, end-user and region.

Product Type:

The central dual energy x-ray absorptiometry segment is expected to dominate the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market share

Central DEXA scans are considered the gold standard for bone mineral density (BMD) measurement, as they provide highly accurate and reproducible results compared to peripheral DEXA or other diagnostic methods. The spine and hip are the primary sites where bone loss occurs, and measuring BMD in these regions offers a reliable assessment of fracture risk. For instance, the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) and National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) strongly endorse central DEXA scanning for the early detection of osteoporosis and its progression, making it the most trusted and widely used method in clinical practice.

Central DEXA is widely used in osteoporosis management, as it helps in risk stratification by measuring the bone density of high-risk areas like the spine and hip, where fractures due to osteoporosis are most common. The central segment also plays a significant role in assessing fracture risk and determining the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatments like bisphosphonates, denosumab, or teriparatide. The ability to track changes in BMD over time is critical for tailoring treatment plans.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market share

Osteoporosis is a significant health concern in North America especially in the United States, particularly among the elderly population, which drives the demand for bone density screenings and diagnostic tools like DEXA. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), around 10 million people in the U.S. suffer from osteoporosis, and an estimated 44 million people have low bone density (osteopenia), putting them at risk for fractures. This high prevalence of bone disorders significantly contributes to the demand for DEXA scans as the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.

In North America, there is a strong focus on preventive healthcare, and the general population is becoming more aware of the risks of osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders. Organizations like the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) and American Bone Health run continuous public awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of bone density testing. These initiatives encourage individuals to undergo routine DEXA screenings, thus driving demand for DEXA devices.

North America, particularly the United States and Canada, has some of the most advanced healthcare systems globally. With a high number of hospitals, clinics and specialty centers dedicated to bone health and osteoporosis management, the region has easy access to advanced diagnostic tools like DEXA machines. The U.S. healthcare system is characterized by an extensive network of diagnostic imaging centers, many of which offer DEXA scans as part of routine check-ups, contributing to high market penetration.

Asia-Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market

The Asia-Pacific region is home to some of the fastest-aging populations globally. For instance, Japan, China, and India are witnessing a rapid increase in their elderly populations. According to the United Nations, by 2050, the number of people aged 60 years and older in Asia will more than double to 1.3 billion. Osteoporosis and bone health issues become more prevalent with age, making bone density testing a critical part of healthcare in this demographic. The aging population in APAC increases the demand for DEXA scans for osteoporosis detection and fracture risk assessment.

The prevalence of osteoporosis is rising rapidly in many Asia-Pacific countries due to factors such as lifestyle changes, dietary habits and sedentary living. Countries like China and India, despite being home to large populations, have relatively low awareness of osteoporosis, which is leading to an increase in undiagnosed cases. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), China and India together account for approximately 50% of the world's osteoporotic fractures. As awareness grows about the importance of bone health, the demand for DEXA scans for early diagnosis is increasing.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) market include GE HealthCare, Hologic, Inc., OSTEOSYS Corp., DMS Group, Swissray International, Inc., Xuzhou Pinyuan Electronic Technology Co., Ltd., FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Scintica Instrumentation, Inc., IDETEC MEDICAL IMAGING, Trivitron Healthcare and among others.

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