Which body composition assessment method uses X-ray technology for accuracy?

The DEXA scan, or Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, utilizes X-ray technology to provide precise measurements of body composition, including fat mass, lean mass, and bone density. This method operates by using two different low-energy X-ray beams to differentiate between various types of tissues in the body. The accuracy of a DEXA scan in assessing body composition arises from its ability to penetrate through different types of matter (fat and lean tissue) and analyze the absorption of the X-ray beams, resulting in highly detailed images and quantitative data.

In contrast, other methods such as ultrasound rely on sound waves to assess tissue composition, hydrostatic weighing involves measuring body density through water displacement, and skinfold calipers use calipers to measure the thickness of skinfolds at specific sites to estimate body fat percentage. These alternative methods may provide useful estimates of body composition, but they generally do not match the precision and reliability offered by a DEXA scan, particularly when it comes to measuring bone density and differentiating between types of soft tissue.