Many movies and TV shows set in the future depict a scanner that can detect the presence of cancer in the body before a person has any signs of disease. Does this type of scanning exist? If there is a test that can detect early signs of cancer, will my insurance cover whole body scanning?
There are a few different types of whole-body scanning. All three types of imaging are usually performed to look for signs of cancer. We will talk about three of these types of imaging tests below:
Whole Body CT Scan - Computed Tomography (CT) scans were developed in the 1970's using X-rays to image the body in the medical field. CT scans are very quick and relatively affordable to perform, but deliver a relatively high amount of radiation to the body. Whole Body CT scans to screen for cancer were developed in the 1990's, but they are not recommended as a screening test due to the high radiation levels it administers to the patient.
Photo from https://europepmc.org/article/pmc/pmc5505575
2. PET Whole Body Scan - Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are a type of whole body scan used for individuals who have already been diagnosed with cancer. This study uses something called radiotracers to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. PET scans expose an individual to a small amount of ionizing radiation, and are not recommended for cancer screening.
Image from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pet-scan/about/pac-20385078
3. Whole Body MRI Scans - Magnetic Resonance Imaging was developed in the 1980's to image the body without radiation. Over time, MRI technology has improved and scanning is much quicker and more affordable than in the past. Since MRI does not use any radiation and produces high-quality imaging, MRI is an excellent screening test for early signs of cancer.
What could the future of cancer screening look like?
Though Whole Body MRI is not yet as fast as the scanners depicted in those movies, MRI is able to screen an individual for signs of cancer far before they have any symptoms of disease. A whole body scan from head to thigh takes about 50 minutes in a comfortable scanner, all while listening to your favorite music throughout the scan.
If the technology exists to screen my body for early signs of cancer without radiation, will my insurance cover my MRI?
Unfortunately, insurance companies do not yet cover whole body screening. I believe the future of physical exams will include whole body imaging without radiation to screen for signs of cancer, but at the moment this is a decision left to the individual. If MRI technology is rapidly improving, do you want to wait for insurance before you start seeing the benefits of whole body MRI screening?
I encourage you to find peace of mind about your health with our comprehensive cancer screening package. If you are ready to book your Whole Body MRI scan, click the Book Now icon above to schedule your appointment!
-Dr. Heidi Millard, MD
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