Kosterina family,
I recently got a full body MRI. Why? At Kosterina, we are perpetual students in the school of preventative health care and I’ve been learning how early detection can be a key part of our health journey. I was seeking peace of mind.
In the evolving landscape of medical diagnostics, full body MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans have emerged as a powerful tool for comprehensive health assessments and a detailed look into the human body. Prenuvo, Ezra and SimonOne scans being some of the most well known. Celebrity endorsements first piqued my interest. I first learned of Prenuvo when Maria Menounos publicly announced that she discovered stage 2 pancreatic cancer through the scan, and it prompted me to dive deeper. I was interested in early disease detection.
I am excited to share my experience with you and delve into the significant advantages (and some of the downsides) of undergoing a full body MRI scan.
Why Consider a Full Body MRI
1. Early Detection of Diseases
One of the most compelling benefits of a full body MRI scan is its ability to detect diseases at an early stage. This includes a wide array of conditions such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and improved survival rates. Dr. Peter Attia, a renowned expert in preventive medicine, states in his book Outlive, ”The final and perhaps most important tool in our anticancer arsenal is early, aggressive screening.” If the first rule of cancer is ‘Don’t get cancer’ the second rule is ‘Catch it as soon as possible’. So, how do we catch it? Early detection scans can be a key part of the answer.
2. Proactive Health Monitoring // Comprehensive Health Assessment
Incorporating regular full body MRI scans into a proactive health strategy allows individuals to monitor their health and make informed lifestyle adjustments. Detecting minor abnormalities early can prompt preventive measures and timely interventions, ultimately enhancing long-term health outcomes. Dr. Attia advocates for the use of advanced imaging technologies as a means to enhance preventive healthcare, stating, "Proactive health monitoring is the future of medicine, enabling us to stay ahead of potential health issues." In most cases, nothing too serious will be found, but the scan will serve as a baseline for one's health and provide something to compare to in the future. The scan provides a detailed overview of the body’s internal structures - covering vital organs, tissues, and systems, providing a holistic view of one's health.
3. Non-Invasive and Radiation-Free with Detailed and Accurate Imaging
Unlike other imaging techniques such as X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not involve radiation exposure. This makes it a safer option, especially for individuals who require frequent imaging for monitoring chronic conditions. The non-invasive nature of MRI also eliminates the need for incisions or injections, reducing the risk of complications. The MRI technology also provides high-resolution images that are crucial for accurate diagnosis. The detailed imaging helps in precisely locating and characterizing abnormalities, aiding in better treatment planning.
4. Peace of Mind
For individuals with a family history of certain diseases or those experiencing unexplained symptoms, a full body MRI scan can offer peace of mind. By providing a thorough examination, it can rule out serious conditions and reassure patients about their health status. "Knowing that you are clear of serious conditions can provide immense relief and allow you to focus on other aspects of health," says Dr. Peter Attia.
My Experience
All the good stuff we just talked about aside, I really had to mentally prepare for my appointment at Prenuvo. After postponing twice due to anxiety about what the scan might tell me, it was time to shift my mindset. My outlook and hope for a world focused on preventative medicine took hold - knowing that I felt good and that if they found anything that it would be caught early and at a time when I had a chance to do something about it. I wanted to know for my kids, for my family, and for myself.
These scans are still cost prohibitive for many. After mustering the courage to go through with it, I finally visited a Prenuvo in NYC and it cost me $2,500. Other reputable companies offering similar services include Ezra ($1,950) and SimonONE ($1,250). While the price tag was a lot higher than I wanted to spend and likely cost prohibitive to many who would benefit greatly from the scan, I was happy I made the investment.
How the Scan Goes Down
You have to sit still for a full hour which I was initially nervous about - but it honestly wasn’t too bad. Luckily, you are not fully enclosed. A bed on tracks will move you in and out of a little tunnel. You wear VR-like goggles and you can watch Netflix or listen to Spotify. I watched the Jerry Seinfeld movie, Unfrosted, which was only mildly distracting because I couldn’t really hear it well due to the loud noises of the machine. It was over before I knew it with results coming one week later.
My results: Thankfully most of my findings were “minor findings”. I had 9 minor findings and one moderate finding. I will now use my imagery and findings to discuss the findings with my doctors and see any specialists as needed. One finding revealed an IPMN on my pancreas. This is a small lesion on my pancreas that has a very small chance of developing into cancer. But because it’s on the pancreas, this is one area I will be sure to screen on a regular basis. I also got some images of my diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles that often occurs after pregnancy) that shows my condition is worse than I thought. Time for more core compression exercises.
Are there any downsides of full body MRIs?
While full body MRIs like those offered by Prenuvo can provide peace of mind and potentially catch diseases early, they come with significant drawbacks. The high cost, risk of overdiagnosis, potential for false positives which require further investigation, unnecessary anxiety, and lack of evidence for their efficacy in asymptomatic individuals are notable concerns. It's important for individuals to weigh these factors and consult with their doctor to determine if such a comprehensive scan is appropriate for their specific health needs.
That being said….
Would I recommend it?
Yes. At the end of the day, if you can afford it, yes.
By leveraging the power of full body MRI scans, we can gain a deeper understanding of their health, enabling us to make informed decisions and lead healthier lives. If you have any other questions about my experience with Prenuvo, please feel free to reply here and I’ll do my best to get back to you!
Peace, Love, & EVOO,
Katina and The Kosterina Team
Examples of my findings:
