A Study Evaluating the Performance of Using AI Software and Chest X-rays to Screen for Osteoporosis as Compared to Standard DXA Scans in Patients 50 Years and Older
This study aims to find out if a special computer program, called Osteo Signal, can help identify people at risk of osteoporosis, a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break. Researchers will use existing chest X-rays and compare the computer program's findings to the results from standard bone density (DXA) scans. DXA scans are currently the main way to diagnose osteoporosis. This research is important because if the computer program is accurate, it could make it easier and quicker to find people who might have osteoporosis, simply by looking at X-rays they've already had. No new tests are involved for patients; the study uses information already collected from people aged 50 and older who have had both a chest X-ray and a DXA scan in the past.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is designed to see if a computer program, called Osteo Signal, can help doctors spot signs of osteoporosis using chest X-rays. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become thinner and weaker, making them more likely to break. Currently, the most common way to check for osteoporosis is with a special scan called a DXA scan, which measures bone density.
Researchers want to understand if this computer program can accurately identify people who might have osteoporosis or osteopenia (a milder form of bone thinning) from chest X-rays that were originally taken for other reasons. If the program works well, it could mean that doctors might be able to use existing chest X-rays to get an early warning about someone's bone health, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.
It's important to know that no one will be specifically asked to have any new tests for this study. Instead, the researchers are using medical information that has already been collected from people aged 50 and over who previously had both a chest X-ray and a DXA scan. This means that if you've had these scans in the past, your anonymised information might be used as part of this research, without you needing to do anything further.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates AI software for osteoporosis detection from X-rays.
- It uses existing chest X-rays and bone density (DXA) scans, not new tests.
- The goal is to find a new, potentially easier way to spot osteoporosis risk.
- No direct patient involvement; all data is from past medical records.
- Participants aged 50 and older whose records are used will not be identified directly.
Who may be eligible?
This study uses existing medical records, so you won't be directly involved. However, the information used in the study comes from people who meet certain criteria. Generally, the study looks at records from individuals who were 50 years old or older when they had their chest X-ray.
For someone's information to be included, they must have had a routine chest X-ray and a DXA scan (a bone density test) around the same time – within six months of each other. Both scans also need to have been performed relatively recently, from January 1st, 2010, onwards. The records also need to clearly state the person's age and sex.
Information would not be used if the scans were not clear enough for proper analysis, or if the person had already been diagnosed with or treated for osteoporosis before their DXA scan. Similarly, if they had other serious bone conditions or major spine or chest problems that might affect the X-ray, their data would not be included.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Were you 50 years old or older when you had a chest X-ray?
- Did you have both a chest X-ray and a bone density (DXA) scan around the same time (within 6 months)?
- Were both these scans done on or after January 1st, 2010?
- Do your medical records clearly show your age and sex alongside these scans?
What does participation involve?
You will not be directly involved in this study. This research uses information from medical records that have already been collected from patients in the past. This means you do not need to attend any appointments, undergo any new tests or scans, take any medication, or have any follow-up appointments related to this study. Your participation simply involves the researchers using your anonymised, existing medical data if it fits the study requirements. There is no time commitment for you.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam,Verified postcodeRotterdam, Netherlands· Not yet recruiting
- Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeWestcliff-on-Sea, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
- Barts Health NHS TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where your bones become weak and more likely to break, even from a minor fall or bump.
What is a DXA scan?
A DXA scan is a special type of X-ray that measures the density of your bones to check for osteoporosis or osteopenia.
Will I have to do anything for this study?
No, you don't need to do anything. This study uses existing medical records from people who already had chest X-rays and DXA scans.
How will my privacy be protected?
The study uses anonymised data, meaning your personal details are removed so researchers cannot identify you from the information they use.
What is 'AI software'?
AI software is a computer program designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, like recognising patterns in images.
How to find out more
Kim Bensalem
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.