In an age where preventive health care has become a priority for many, early detection of potential health concerns -- especially cancer -- can significantly influence the success of treatment and long-term outcomes.
Proactivity concerning health is about more than just reacting to symptoms, it’s about utilizing advanced medical technology to uncover hidden issues before they become life-threatening.
Ackerman Cancer Center’s Total Body MRI (TBMRI) scan -- an essential tool in the fight for early detection -- gives patients a detailed, comprehensive look at their overall health.
Benefits of proactive screening
The TBMRI -- a breakthrough in cancer and health screening – gives patients the benefit of a thorough, radiation-free scan.
“It’s another tool for detecting cancer that complements other imaging devices such as X-Rays, CT scans, ultrasounds and PET scans,” said Dr. Scot Ackerman, radiation oncologist with Ackerman Cancer Center.
It offers detailed images of critical body regions -- from the brain and spine to the pelvis, lungs and beyond -- and covers more than 500 potential health conditions, which makes it a powerful tool for early cancer detection. It can uncover abnormalities before symptoms appear, which enables doctors to address issues early and reduce the need for more aggressive treatments later.
Below are five reasons why proactivity in your health through early detection can make all the difference, according to Ackerman Cancer Center:
1. Improved health outcomes: Detecting conditions early, before they develop into more serious issues, means treatment options become less invasive and more effective. This is particularly true for cancers found in early stages, which can often be treated successfully with fewer side effects.
2. Comprehensive coverage: The Total Body MRI is not limited to detecting cancer alone. It is designed to scan a wide variety of conditions across multiple parts of the body, including the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and prostate. The holistic approach means patients can receive a complete picture of their health, which allows for early intervention in a variety of areas.
3. Radiation-free imaging: Unlike other imaging tools like X-rays and CT scans, the Total Body MRI uses no radiation, which makes it a safer alternative for comprehensive screening. This provides peace of mind for patients that they are not exposing their bodies to harmful radiation but still receive detailed, accurate results.
4. Quick and comfortable process: The process of undergoing a Total Body MRI is both quick and comfortable. The one-hour scan is painless, and the MRI’s design includes comfort-enhancing features like an air-comfort mattress and soothing lighting. Technicians monitor the scan closely to ensure quality and to intervene in case of any patient movement, which minimizes delays or the need for a rescan.
5. Timely results: “Results are reviewed with a nurse practitioner via phone, online video call or in person, approximately one week following the scan,” Ackerman said. This allows for quicker decision making when deciding next steps, whether that involves further testing, lifestyle adjustments or treatment plans.
Who should consider a Total Body MRI?
While the Total Body MRI is an excellent tool for early detection, it is especially beneficial for those at higher risk or with a family history.
“Also, people who are seeking preventative health care and would like a baseline for their health,” Ackerman said.
Those with a family history of cancer or individuals seeking preventive health care can get a baseline scan to monitor their health over time, which enables them to stay ahead of potential issues, rather than waiting for symptoms to arise.
It’s important to note that not everyone should undergo a TBMRI. Certain groups, such as pregnant women or individuals with metal implants like pacemakers, might not be suitable candidates for MRI scans.
Patients should consult with their health care providers to ensure the scan is appropriate for their health needs.
Early detection of cancer and other health concerns
The Total Body MRI scan is sensitive, with the ability to detect abnormalities as small as half a millimeter. However, it’s important to note that not all abnormalities detected are indicative of cancer.
The scan is designed to identify potential issues, which gives patients and doctors a starting point for further investigation. Though the TBMRI is excellent at identifying various health conditions, it does not detect blood or bone cancers, and additional scans or tests may be required for a comprehensive diagnosis.
In addition to cancer, the Total Body MRI can detect a variety of health conditions, including certain heart issues, abdominal aortic aneurysms and signs of previous concussions. However, the MRI cannot provide definitive insights into long-term brain health unless there has been considerable damage.
With expert oncologists, state-of-the-art technology and a focus on comfort, Ackerman said the Cancer Center provides an ideal environment for proactive health monitoring. The Total Body MRI scan is just one example of how the center integrates advanced technology into their mission of providing the best possible care.
By prioritizing early detection and utilizing innovative diagnostic tools, Ackerman Cancer Center empowers patients to take control of their health and helps them to identify potential issues before they escalate into more serious problems.
To learn more about the Total Body MRI or to schedule an appointment, click or tap here or call 904-747-9368.