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February 12, 2026Open Access

Precision, least significant change and validity of body composition estimates from bioelectrical impedance analysis, 3D-optical scanning, and dual X-ray absorptiometry

Key Points

Assess the precision and validity of body composition estimates from BIA, 3D scanning, and DXA.
Compared body composition outcomes from BIA, 3D scanning, and DXA
Evaluated precision and validity of measurements
Analyzed interchangeability of devices at the individual level
BIA and 3D scanning showed acceptable precision for whole-body outcomes
Measurements from BIA and 3D scanning are not interchangeable with DXA
Findings highlight limitations of using BIA or 3D scanning in place of DXA in practice

Abstract

BIA and 3DS exhibited acceptable precision for most whole-body 2C outcomes, yet measurements were not interchangeable with DXA at the individual level. These findings caution against applying cross-device normative data or clinical cut-points and underscore the limitations of substituting BIA or 3DS for DXA in general practice.

Precision, least significant change and validity of body composition estimates from bioelectrical impedance analysis, 3D-optical scanning, and dual X-ray absorptiometry

Key Points

Abstract

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