Whole-Body MRI Scans Gain Popularity at $1,500-$4,000 Despite Expert Warnings
Updated
Updated · KABC-TV · Jul 25
Whole-Body MRI Scans Gain Popularity at $1,500-$4,000 Despite Expert Warnings
2 articles · Updated · KABC-TV · Jul 25
Summary
Elective whole-body MRI screenings are resurging as social media influencers and scan providers pitch early detection of stage-one cancers and hundreds of other conditions.
About 1 in 5 patients gets a finding that needs follow-up, according to Prenuvo, but doctors say many of those abnormalities prove harmless and can trigger anxiety, extra tests or treatment.
Major medical groups advise against routine whole-body MRIs because evidence has not shown better survival outcomes, unlike established screening programs for diseases such as breast and colon cancer.
One ovarian-cancer screening study cited by radiologists found 212 cancers in the screened group with no mortality benefit, while more than 1,000 women underwent unnecessary surgery.
The scans are rarely covered by insurance, and physicians say patients should weigh the information value against cost and potential harm with their primary doctor before booking one.