ABSTRACT
This chapter validates the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in the measurement of percent body fat (%BF) and to establish whether DEXA total %BF or DEXA subtotal %BF (without the head) has a better agreement and less error compared to hydrodensitometry. Body composition, especially the body fat component is important in the assessment of nutritional status, disease risk, health, athlete assessment and the effectiveness of interventions in physical fitness programmes. Lung residual volume and underwater weight were measured and a DEXA scan obtained (total and subtotal data [without the head] recorded) during a single test session in 30 female subjects. The close agreement and strong correlation between hydrodensitometry and DEXA techniques mean that DEXA can be used to determine % body fat accurately and precisely in females with a range of body compositions.
