Detecting Disease Early
Medical imaging detects critical illnesses at their most curable stage - and, in many cases, when they are least costly to treat. Medical imaging is center-stage in America's efforts at prevention and early detection. Molecular imaging allows physicians to go even further, detecting disease at the cellular level, before any symptoms or signs are noticeable.
CT scans can detect lung cancer at its initial and most treatable stage. A New England Journal of Medicine study says CT screening could eliminate 80% of lung cancer deaths in high risk patients. See NJEM. A study in the journal Chest calls CT "highly cost-effective." See Chest.
Molecular imaging holds the promise of identifying disease at the earliest possible time, even before symptoms are apparent. See Molecular
Ultrasound scans can detect dangerous abdominal aneurysms before they burst—and the scans are cost-effective. See Ultrasound. They are also recommended by the top US task force on preventive services. See Task Force.
Imaging identifies stroke rapidly, aiding physicians in fast treatment that can save lives and reduce disabilities. See Stroke. Imaging can also help prevent stroke. See Carotid.
Mammography identifies breast cancer one to three years before a lump can be felt, thereby saving lives. Early detection reduces the risk of death in women 50 to 69 years of age by 30 percent; in women in their 40s, the risk can drop by 17 percent. See Mammography
- The Lancet reports that earlier diagnosis through mammography is a factor in the dramatic improvement in the 15-year survival rate during the 1990s among breast cancer patients in the US and Europe. See 15-Year Survival
Virtual colonoscopy using 3-D imaging identifies colorectal cancer when it is still highly treatable – and it's faster and more comfortable than traditional exams. See Colonoscopy
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