Research & Innovation | Overview
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) has become an indispensable tool in clinical research for its ability to accurately measure bone mineral density, body composition, and fat distribution. With its non-invasive nature and high precision, DXA provides researchers with crucial data for assessing bone health, diagnosing osteoporosis, monitoring changes in body composition due to interventions or diseases, and evaluating the efficacy of treatments.
Moreover, DXA's capability to differentiate between lean mass, fat mass, and bone mineral content makes it invaluable in studying conditions such as obesity, sarcopenia, and metabolic disorders. By offering precise and reliable measurements, DXA empowers researchers to advance the understanding of various diseases and optimize patient care strategies, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and quality of life.
At Boston Children’s Hospital, our DXA Bone Density Program collaborates with more than 40 clinical research studies spanning various disciplines, both within and outside our institution. We eagerly anticipate connecting with you to explore how DXA can be integrated into your clinical research endeavors. Here is one example of our ongoing collaborations using DXA:
Bone health in student athletes
Recognizing the crucial role of bone health in both performance and long-term well-being, our initiatives provide tailored solutions for female athletes and all young sports enthusiasts. Boston Children’s Female Athlete Program is dedicated to empowering young female athletes, focusing on optimizing bone health to unlock their true capabilities while safeguarding against injuries. Similarly, the staff of our Sports Medicine Division extend their expertise to all young athletes, fostering peak performance and resilience through evidence-based practices.
If you’d like to use DXA in your research, contact alicia.pendleton@childrens.harvard.edu.