England Installs 13 New Bone Scanners to Boost Osteoporosis Diagnosis

The UK government is investing in 13 new advanced bone density scanners, known as DEXA machines, to be installed in hospitals across England, including locations in West Yorkshire, Grimsby, Surrey, and Dewsbury. These scanners aim to improve early diagnosis of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk, particularly benefiting women at higher risk such as those experiencing early menopause. Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized that early diagnosis through these scanners leads to faster treatment and better patient outcomes, with the investment expected to deliver an additional 29,000 scans annually. The new scanners will also ease access to diagnostics by enabling GP referrals without hospital consultations, as in the case of Grimsby's Community Diagnostic Centre. Experts like Craig Jones, CEO of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, highlighted that early detection will help prevent life-threatening fractures, hospitalizations, and isolation, ultimately restoring patients' quality of life. NHS England's women’s health lead and other officials praised the targeted investment as a crucial step for prevention and reducing waiting lists within the NHS.