Have you ever considered getting a full body scan? It has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Loved by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jason Bateman, full body scans have taken the medical and social media world by storm.
And why would they not? They provide an in-depth look at your body and thus, your health. Join us as we quickly examine all the benefits of a full body scan.
Full Body Scan 101
Of course, when you hear the words full body scan, some portal in which you need to stand comes to mind, right? Even though these scans are incredibly progressive, you do not need to imagine the year 2072. Full body scans pretty much use technologies that we are already familiar with. These include X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to examine everything from organs and bones to tissues to check for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
The difference is that an X-ray uses a small amount of ionising radiation to create images of your bones and other dense structures inside your body. A CT scan (Computed Tomography) uses a series of X-ray images from different angles. It combines them using a computer to create detailed cross-sectional images of your organs, bones, and soft tissues. An MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed images of your organs and soft tissues without radiation. It is as simple as that.
Advantages Of Whole Body Imaging
Spotting Health Issues Early
Early detection is a very big deal! It allows your general practitioner to tackle potential issues head-on before they worsen. This is especially true since so many serious conditions, like heart disease or certain cancers, can develop without any symptoms at first. That is why a full body scan is golden.
Breast cancer’s chances of becoming life-threatening can be reduced by 40% if caught early. Early detection of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels can lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes by up to 50%. Early intervention, like clot-busting treatments, can improve stroke survival rates by 30 to 50% when administered within 3 hours of symptoms starting. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce fractures by up to 50% in individuals with osteoporosis through medications and lifestyle changes. And the list goes on. The earlier a health issue is found, the easier it is to treat. Our guess is that every GP in the world would agree.
Peace Of Mind
The softest pillow in the world is a clean bill of health. No stressing about what is lurking in your anatomical shadows. If you want to experience peace of mind, a total body scan can provide it. If you have a family history of certain diseases or follow a lifestyle you know is not the best for your health, knowing you are in tip-top shape is probably one of the greatest feelings in the world.
Non-Invasive And Thorough
Yes, X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans are completely noninvasive. This means there is no need for surgery, anaesthesia, cutting, slicing, dicing, or any other uncomfortable procedures. There is also a lot less to fear. It is a gentle yet powerful way to get a good sense and overview of your health.
A Huge Step Toward Preventive Care
As the very famous saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. If you must cure, the earlier the better. Again, a full body scan is a fantastic way to stay ahead of health issues before you become sick, as well as catch certain health issues before physical issues start to arise. Sadly, in the UK last year, the NHS offered 973,846 health checks in a recent quarter, and only 347,837 people took advantage of them. This just goes to show people do not fully understand the power of preventative care. If you are one of them, just remember it is all about taking control of your health before things spiral.
Increased Awareness Of Your Body
A full body scan beautifully ties in with preventative care. It also helps you understand how your body is functioning. You get to see exactly how your organs and tissues are performing, and this knowledge can help you make better health choices. Maybe you were not aware of this or that, but having a clearer picture of your body’s needs can be a great motivator to stick with those healthy habits.
A Quick Recap On What We Have Learned
A full body scan can save your life.
Because it is so much more than just a health check. It is a proactive way to take control of your well-being. From spotting issues early to giving you peace of mind, the benefits are clear. Book one at a trusted public clinic or private practice, and go to bed tonight knowing you did the right thing by investing in your health, life, and yourself.
Author: Dr Enam Abood
Dr Enam Abood is a registered GP and the founder and lead doctor of the Harley Street Health Centre. She has been practicing medicine for over 36 years with a specialisation in general and preventative medicine.
Dr Abood is one the most experienced private doctors in London.
