Thousands of patients at risk of osteoporosis and other bone conditions will benefit from faster access to vital bone scans, as new DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scanners are rolled out across the South East of England.

The new machines at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHU) and Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust will help diagnose fragile bones earlier and prevent painful, lifechanging fractures — particularly among older people and women, who are disproportionately affected by osteoporosis.

This investment builds on the first wave of scanners announced last year, many of which are already in use and helping patients start treatment sooner.

At PHU, the new DEXA scanner will be based at Queen Alexandra Hospital, increasing capacity and improving access for the local population.

Chief Delivery Officer at  Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust, Lee McPhail, said: “We are delighted to be receiving a new DEXA scanner which will help us streamline our service, improve the experience for patients and staff, and ensure we can continue delivering high-quality care to our population. Having equipment we can rely on is a real boost for the team and ultimately means we can deliver faster, safer care for the people who need it most.”

Osteoporosis affects millions of people in the UK. Women are at far greater risk, especially after the menopause. Fractures linked to weak bones can lead to loss of independence, long hospital stays and reduced quality of life. Earlier diagnosis means patients can begin medication and make lifestyle changes to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of breaks.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, the expansion marks a significant step forward in tackling a condition that too often goes undiagnosed until a serious fracture occurs.

The scanners – known as DEXA machines – measure bone density and are the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.

Andrea Lewis, Regional Chief Nurse at NHS England South East, said: “Osteoporosis is one of the most significant yet often overlooked women’s health issues, particularly after the menopause, when the risk of bone loss rises sharply. By expanding DEXA scanning across the South East, we can diagnose osteoporosis earlier, support women to stay active and independent for longer, and prevent the devastating fractures that can follow undetected bone weakness. These new scanners will help us deliver faster, more reliable diagnostic care and ensure people receive the support they need before a serious injury occurs.”

The government’s £2.6 million investment delivers a major boost to early diagnosis and fracture prevention and includes six new additional scanners and 14 new replacement models. It is the latest step in the government’s mission to modernise diagnostics and cut waiting times, as part of the 10 Year Health Plan.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Too many women are suffering painful, preventable fractures because osteoporosis is diagnosed too late. That has to change. These new scanners will help thousands of patients get tested sooner, start treatment earlier and avoid the trauma of life-changing breaks. We are cutting waiting times and modernising the NHS so it works for patients – preventing illness where we can, and delivering care faster for those that need it most.”