Father-son startup MAUI Imaging raises $14 million to transform ultrasound technology. Read its pitch deck.
While ultrasounds are mostly used for soft tissue, MAUI says it's developing a system to see through and around traditional barriers like bone, gas, fat, instruments, and implants. The company aims to expedite diagnosis and treatment, particularly in trauma scenarios, given that this kind of imaging typically requires CT or MRI scans.
A father-son duo founded MAUI — an acronym for Multiple Aperture Ultrasound Insonification — out of their Silicon Valley garage in 2006.
The late Don Specht started developing the technology while building space telescopes at Lockheed Martin, and sought — alongside his son David, a former Air Force flyer-turned-entrepreneur who serves as MAUI's CEO — to apply it to the human body.
"We had to wait for Moore's Law to catch up," David Specht said of MAUI's long developmental road.
The company emerged from stealth in August 2024 with a $4 million Department of Defense contract to study its applications in the field. The military is particularly interested in using the portable system for trauma assessment by corpsmen or medics with minimal training, Specht said.
"They're trying to move the decision-making point as far forward as possible because they don't have enough doctors," Specht said.
He added that MAUI's imaging results in a massive trove of data that could be useful for AI health tools.
MAUI counts eight employees and eight consultants, and it has raised roughly $40 million to date.
The Series D included equity funding and was led by ultrasound device company Acertara, which now has exclusive distribution rights to the system. The average sales price for the system is $85,000, plus maintenance costs, Specht said.
While the FDA has cleared the device for traditional ultrasound uses, MAUI — which has 160 patents — will use data gleaned from its clinical trials with the military as it seeks clearance to make claims about seeing through and around obstructions.
Here's a look at the pitch deck MAUI Imaging used to raise its $14 million Series D. Some slides and details have been redacted in order to share the deck publicly.
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Business Upturn
18 hours ago
- Business Upturn
Feel Good Knees Introduces 'Knee Self-Restoration Ritual' Backed by Stanford Orthopedic Research on Natural Cartilage Healing
New York, Aug. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For decades, doctors claimed that cartilage couldn't heal itself. But recent studies—led in part by Dr. Constance Chu of Stanford University—are challenging that belief. Using MRI imaging, researchers have observed signs of natural knee joint regeneration, inspiring new approaches to non-invasive recovery. One such approach, featured in the Feel Good Knees system, is gaining traction among active adults and seniors looking to avoid surgery and reclaim pain-free movement. This 5-minute 'Knee Self-Restoration Ritual' is now being hailed as a gentle, science-guided method for unlocking the body's hidden healing potential. To see how this gentle routine is changing the way knee health is approached, visit the official Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System resource page. Why Interest in 'Knee Self-Healing' Is Surging in 2025 In 2025, more adults than ever are rethinking how they approach knee pain. A combination of rising surgery costs, drug-related risks, and breakthrough science is fueling public demand for safer, simpler alternatives that focus on the body's natural ability to heal. Searches for terms like 'natural knee pain relief,' 'cartilage regeneration,' and 'avoid knee surgery' have exploded on Google, while platforms like Reddit, TikTok, and YouTube are flooded with user-driven discussions around joint health, body alignment, and pain-free movement at any age. Why the sudden shift? For starters, many are becoming disillusioned with traditional solutions. NSAIDs—commonly used anti-inflammatory medications—are now under increasing scrutiny. According to the American Journal of Medicine, NSAIDs are linked to over 16,500 deaths each year from gastrointestinal bleeding, while countless others suffer from liver and kidney complications caused by prolonged use【Source: AJM; Singh 1998】. Surgical options aren't much better. The average knee replacement surgery in the U.S. costs between $30,000 and $50,000, and can leave patients with long recoveries, visible scarring, and recurring discomfort【Source: Healthline; 'What You Need to Know About Knee Surgery'】. And according to research published in Harvard Health , knee replacement implants often need to be replaced again after 10–15 years, creating additional surgeries and financial burdens down the line【Source: Harvard Health Publishing, 2023】. But perhaps the most exciting reason for this surge in interest is emerging from the scientific community itself. In a pivotal two-year study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association , researchers tracked 325 patients with knee cartilage degeneration. Using high-resolution MRI technology, they discovered that 37% of patients showed signs of cartilage healing—an outcome previously believed to be impossible. Their conclusion: 'MRI results showed cartilage repair and healing.'【Source: JAMA, 2023】 This finding was further echoed by Dr. Constance Chu, a renowned Stanford Orthopedic Surgeon and Professor, who has led research showing that articular cartilage possesses self-repair capacity under the right mechanical and biological conditions. Her stance directly contradicts decades of conventional wisdom that once damage occurs, it's permanent【Source: Stanford Medicine; Dr. Constance Chu Lab】. These data points, combined with mounting anecdotal success stories, have created a groundswell. People no longer want to merely 'manage' knee pain—they want to overcome it. And they're now open to exploring simple, non-invasive rituals that support their body's innate healing abilities. In short, the concept of 'knee self-healing' is no longer pseudoscience—it's a growing global movement, grounded in evidence, and propelled by everyday people who are ready to reclaim their mobility. Experience the difference a natural approach makes—explore the Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System now. Feel Good Knees as a Response to This Shift As millions seek non-invasive alternatives to injections and joint surgeries, one system is quietly leading the conversation: Feel Good Knees. This 5-minute-per-day method, known as the 'Knee Self-Restoration Ritual,' is designed to work with the body's natural recovery systems—without pills, painful physical therapy, or medical equipment. At the center of this approach is a simple question: what if the knees were never the problem, but rather the neglected victim of poor alignment, restricted mobility, and years of muscle imbalance? The Feel Good Knees system approaches joint discomfort not as a chronic curse, but as a correctable pattern—one that can be addressed with gentle, science-backed movement protocols. Developed by fitness educator and medical manual therapy specialist Todd Kuslikis, the program is built for aging adults who want to reclaim control of their mobility from the comfort of home. The system blends therapeutic isometric holds, alignment adjustments, and relaxation-based techniques designed specifically for sore, stiff, or post-surgical knees. No gym memberships. No risky devices. Just five minutes a day in a chair, on the bed, or even while standing. And its design wasn't random. Kuslikis created the program after watching his own wife suffer through knee pain so severe that it interrupted their daily lives—and even their intimacy. Armed with a background in kinesiology, calisthenics, and injury rehabilitation, he began assembling a toolkit of gentle, proven movements that support circulation, lubrication, and functional knee positioning. The result: a user-friendly program that doesn't require athleticism, prior experience, or even full mobility to get started. What makes it resonate so deeply with users is its simplicity. It doesn't promise to 'cure' anyone, nor does it rely on trends or gimmicks. Instead, Feel Good Knees positions itself as a natural response to a broken system—offering hope not through hype, but through self-guided action. In a market flooded with braces, pills, and quick fixes, Feel Good Knees stands out for its ability to restore not just mobility, but also confidence. It acknowledges the science of self-healing, incorporates modern orthopedic findings, and translates them into a ritual that real people can actually use. Ready to take control of your knee health?See how others are doing it with the Feel Good Knees program. What Online Users Are Saying About This Category Across the internet in 2025, a growing wave of users is challenging the mainstream narrative about joint pain—especially when it comes to aging knees. From Reddit threads and podcast transcripts to YouTube commentary and TikTok explainers, people of all ages are increasingly skeptical of the traditional 'pill or surgery' approach. What once felt like the default medical advice—NSAIDs, injections, or full joint replacements—is now facing resistance from everyday users who are openly sharing their frustrations and exploring non-invasive alternatives. On TikTok, videos tagged with #kneepainrelief, #naturalhealing, and #jointmobility now boast millions of views. Creators frequently talk about lifestyle upgrades, posture corrections, and overlooked alignment techniques that have helped them avoid surgery. Others share their experiments with mobility routines, barefoot training, or low-impact movement regimens—all seeking the same goal: pain-free movement without dependency. Meanwhile, popular podcasts in the health and aging space are dedicating entire episodes to mobility without medication, often highlighting overlooked therapies like isometric protocols, fascia release, and micro-adjustment exercises. Listeners are responding with enthusiasm, echoing sentiments like 'why didn't I hear about this 10 years ago?' and 'my doctor never told me there were alternatives.' In online review forums and comment sections, one theme is consistent: people want options that are gentle, proven, and accessible from home. There's a growing cultural belief that knees—like skin, muscles, and other tissues—shouldn't be excluded from the body's natural healing intelligence. The Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System has entered that conversation as a quiet frontrunner. While many systems rely on trends or unproven supplements, this method resonates because it taps into what online users already believe: that less can be more, and that a structured, low-resistance approach might actually work better than anything they've tried before. For many, it's not about avoiding doctors—it's about finally finding something that aligns with their values and actually fits into their daily lives. As one long-time wellness forum user put it, 'After all the braces, pills, and pricey gadgets, I can't believe a five-minute technique from a recliner is what finally gave me relief.' Learn why thousands are turning to this self-healing method—access the Feel Good Knees official guide. Who Might Gravitate Toward This Product in 2025 In 2025, the desire for pain-free movement isn't limited to athletes or injury recovery patients. It spans a much wider audience—people who are tired of feeling sidelined by discomfort and eager to regain control of their bodies, starting with their knees. The Feel Good Knees system was designed with these people in mind. Many are active adults in their 50s, 60s, or 70s who feel youthful at heart, but find their knees limiting their participation in everyday joys—whether it's gardening, golf, or chasing grandkids. These individuals aren't necessarily seeking high-performance results. What they want is freedom: the ability to move confidently, bend easily, and wake up without that familiar throb in their joints. Others include people who've had surgeries—some successfully, others not—who are looking for a way to support long-term joint health without relying on repeat procedures, follow-up injections, or prescription painkillers. Then there are those who've been proactive all along. Health-conscious individuals who believe in prevention and mobility longevity. For them, the Feel Good Knees ritual acts as a daily tune-up—gentle, grounded in physiology, and supportive of natural function. Even younger users, such as former athletes or those recovering from old sports injuries, are turning to this kind of program. Many are discovering that restoring patella alignment, relaxing overworked ligaments, and building low-impact joint strength can provide long-term comfort and stability—especially when done consistently over time. What unites them all is the mindset: people who aren't waiting around for pain to get worse. They want something simple, structured, and sustainable—without aggressive treatments or synthetic drugs. Whether you're just beginning to notice stiffness or have been managing knee discomfort for years, the Feel Good Knees system offers a calm, intelligent response to a complex problem. It doesn't demand hours of your time or access to a clinic. Instead, it gives you the tools to take charge of your recovery right from your recliner. To find out how this at-home system is helping thousands of people step back into life with strength and ease, explore the official Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System today. Market Category Reflections – Why This Niche Is Expanding The market for non-invasive pain management, particularly in the realm of joint support, has evolved rapidly in recent years. In 2025, a growing number of consumers are opting out of conventional solutions and exploring alternatives that were once considered fringe—such as fascia manipulation, isometric therapy, or passive alignment-based rituals. One of the fastest-growing subcategories within this movement is the self-guided, home-based mobility program. Products like Feel Good Knees are thriving not just because they're easier or less expensive—but because they're aligned with a deeper cultural shift. Today's consumers are more informed than ever. They question the idea that aging automatically leads to immobility. They research. They cross-reference clinical studies. They ask if surgery is truly the only option. And most importantly, they're demanding solutions that don't require them to surrender control of their bodies—or their wallets. This shift is reflected in keyword trends as well. Search volume for phrases like 'natural knee cartilage support,' 'home knee therapy,' and 'knee healing without surgery' has surged globally. Influencers and wellness practitioners are also fueling the conversation, contributing to what many now recognize as a full-scale category breakout. Part of this explosion in interest is due to the new wave of research validating the self-healing potential of joints. The 2023 JAMA study documenting 37% cartilage improvement in knees using natural, non-surgical methods has become a landmark reference point in online forums and health communities【Source: JAMA, 2023】. Additionally, Stanford University orthopedic professor Dr. Constance Chu continues to make headlines for her bold position that 'articular cartilage can heal' under proper conditions【Source: Stanford Medicine, 2023】. This single phrase, echoed across academic publications and interviews, has helped legitimize an entire category of non-invasive knee recovery methods that once existed outside the medical mainstream. But it's not just science driving the shift—it's demographics. The number of Americans over 60 continues to climb, and with it, a growing demand for mobility solutions that don't rely on narcotics, joint injections, or surgical implants. As the healthcare system becomes more expensive and overburdened, programs that teach users to restore function naturally—on their own terms—are being embraced as both a medical necessity and a personal empowerment tool. Feel Good Knees sits squarely in the center of that trend. It reflects the new definition of wellness: individualized, sustainable, evidence-informed, and low-risk. It also speaks to a larger consumer truth—people no longer want to be patients. They want to be participants in their own recovery. Take the first step toward pain-free knees—visit the Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System homepage. Public Debate – Supporters, Skeptics, and the Signals Behind the Buzz As interest in natural joint healing grows, so too does the conversation surrounding its legitimacy. The Feel Good Knees Self-Healing System has found itself at the center of this expanding debate—welcomed by many, questioned by others, and observed closely by professionals across fields ranging from physical therapy to biohacking. Supporters of the system point to the growing body of research that validates the potential for cartilage regeneration and biomechanical realignment, even in aging populations. They highlight studies like the 2023 publication in The Journal of the American Medical Association , which showed measurable MRI-documented cartilage improvements in over one-third of participants using non-surgical interventions【Source: JAMA, 2023】. They also cite expert commentary from Stanford Orthopedic Professor Dr. Constance Chu, whose work continues to affirm that knee cartilage may not be as static and unchangeable as once believed【Source: Stanford Medicine】. Beyond the academic world, practitioners in manual therapy and movement science have voiced support as well. They see routines like Feel Good Knees not as miracle cures, but as structured interventions that restore healthy joint mechanics through cumulative, low-impact input. In this light, the system becomes a tool for long-term maintenance, rather than a quick-fix remedy. However, not everyone is convinced. Skeptics warn that some users may overestimate the results or delay needed medical intervention. Critics argue that while natural healing is promising, it must be personalized and carefully monitored—particularly for those with advanced osteoarthritis, surgical complications, or degenerative meniscus damage. Others raise concerns about the oversimplification of knee biomechanics in popular marketing. They note that joint dysfunction is often multifactorial—impacted by weight, posture, injury history, and even genetics—and that no single solution, however well-designed, should be seen as universal. But even in these critiques, there is common ground. Most observers—supportive or skeptical—acknowledge that the system's emphasis on low-risk, low-impact routines is a net positive. The real disagreement lies not in whether such programs should exist, but in how broadly they should be recommended. What continues to tip the scale in the system's favor is one undeniable factor: user experience. With over 119,000 users and countless unsolicited testimonials reporting improved comfort, enhanced mobility, and a renewed sense of independence, the public momentum is difficult to ignore. Even many cautious observers admit that if a program is affordable, easy to follow, and doesn't interfere with conventional treatment, it may provide meaningful benefits—whether through physical stimulation or the psychological empowerment that comes with taking action. And that may be the most important signal behind the buzz: people want to participate in their own recovery. Not just passively treat symptoms—but actively work toward a better outcome. Uncover the breakthrough routine helping people move without pain—see what the Feel Good Knees System is all about. About Feel Good Knees Feel Good Knees is a mobility-focused wellness program designed to support healthy knees through natural, non-invasive methods. Founded by fitness educator and injury prevention specialist Todd Kuslikis, the brand's core mission is to empower aging adults to regain control of their movement without surgery, pills, or high-intensity exercise. Rooted in decades of anatomical study, therapeutic movement design, and orthopedic science, the system was developed specifically for seniors and adults dealing with recurring knee pain, stiffness, or joint instability. It combines gentle isometric protocols, alignment-based postural corrections, and fascia-releasing techniques—all structured into a simple, five-minute daily ritual. What makes the Feel Good Knees approach unique is its intentional accessibility. It requires no special equipment, no athletic background, and no in-person appointments. The system is self-paced, easy to follow, and built to deliver meaningful results from the comfort of home. The company operates on an education-first philosophy. Every technique is demonstrated via high-definition video and explained in plain language, ensuring users understand not just what to do—but why it works. This teaching-based model reflects the brand's belief that real change happens when users are informed, not just instructed. Feel Good Knees also incorporates the latest research into joint healing, muscle recruitment, and postural alignment. The program is updated as new science emerges, and remains committed to transparency, user safety, and long-term joint wellness. Your knees deserve to feel better—discover the Feel Good Knees approach that's changing lives. Contact Final Disclaimer This press release is for informational purposes only. The content herein does not constitute financial, legal, or medical advice. Feel Good Knees is not intended to diagnose, treat, predict, or guarantee any result or outcome. Individual experiences may vary, and outcomes are not assured. Some links in this release may be promotional in nature and may lead to third-party websites. The publisher or author may receive compensation through affiliate commissions if a purchase is made through these links. This compensation does not affect the price you pay and helps support continued research and content publication. All statements made about product features, platform strategies, or training content reflect publicly available information, user discussions, or historical trends, and are not endorsed or validated by regulatory bodies. Please perform your own research before making financial, technological, or purchasing decisions. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
New York Post
a day ago
- New York Post
‘Horny' mom, 42, reveals terrifying reason behind the sudden loss of her sex drive: ‘My partner took it personally'
A British mom says she was stunned to learn what was behind the sudden loss of her sex drive. Leanne Jones, 42, was once 'horny,' admitting she loved spending hours in the bedroom with partner Adam, 40. Several years ago, the former legal secretary suddenly found herself struggling to get aroused and wasn't able to climax as usual. 'I went from being very highly sex driven to feeling like Grandpa Joe from 'Willy Wonka,'' the mom-of-two, from South Wales in the United Kingdom, told Jam Press. 5 'I went from being very highly sex driven to feeling like Grandpa Joe from Willy Wonka,' the mom-of-two, from South Wales in the United Kingdom, told Jam Press. Jam Press/@leanne_fighting_ms 5 'There have been many times my partner could've walked away, but he says we are a team,' Jones said. She is pictured with Adam. Jam Press/@leanne_fighting_ms 'My partner took it personally at first, as many would, and thought I didn't love him anymore,' she continued. 'No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get back my once horny self.' Jones was also experiencing 'crippling' fatigue and partial hearing loss. Knowing something wasn't quite right, she saw her doctor and was booked in for an MRI scan. Shockingly, the Brit was diagnosed with two conditions; Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which affects the brain and spinal cord, and functional neurological disorder, which impacts how the brain receives and sends information to the rest of the body. 'Because of the nerve damage to the brain and spine, the signals needed for arousal, sensation and orgasm are no longer there,' Jones explained. 'It creates a disconnect. For us women, there's issues with low sex drive, lack of sensation and lubrication and pain.' 5 'Because of the nerve damage to the brain and spine, the signals needed for arousal, sensation and orgasm are no longer there,' Jones explained. Jam Press/@leanne_fighting_ms 5 The Brit was diagnosed with two conditions; multiple sclerosis, which affects the brain and spinal cord, and functional neurological disorder, which impacts how the brain receives and sends information to the rest of the body. Jam Press/@leanne_fighting_ms While Jones' partner was initially upset about lack of interest in sex, he is standing by her as she faces her health battle. 'There have been many times my partner could've walked away, but he says we are a team,' Jones stated.'I spoke with an MS neurologist in front of him about the issues we were having in the bedroom and he understood that it's not him, it's my brain.' Jones is now an advocate for other people who are suffering MS, taking to TikTok to explain how the illness impacts sex drive. 'I had a number of male sufferers message to thank me for discussing it as a few of them had lost partners over it,' the mom told Jam Press. 'This is why it's so important to raise awareness. It's such a debilitating and lonely life.' 5 In addition to her lack of sex drive, Jones is suffering from problems with her speech and issues with her mobility and vision. Jam Press/@leanne_fighting_ms In addition to her lack of sex drive, Jones is suffering from problems with her speech and issues with her mobility and vision. However, the mom insists she's still able to enjoy her life. 'I want people to know that even though it feels like a prison sentence, it's not,' she said. 'You've got to work with it, not against it, as there's so much to live for.'
Business Insider
a day ago
- Business Insider
Would you pay $2,500 a year to scan your entire body for hidden diseases?
Doctors have been arguing over the utility of preventive full-body MRI scans for decades. In 2004, it became a central plot point on an episode of the TV show "Scrubs." "I am considering offering full-body scans here at Sacred Heart. What do you think?" Dr. Bob Kelso, chief of medicine at the hospital in fictional San DiFrangeles, asks. "I think showing perfectly healthy people every harmless imperfection in their body just to scare them into taking invasive and often pointless tests is an unholy sin," Dr. Perry Cox responds, echoing a sentiment many real doctors have toward high-end preventive scans. It's been more than 20 years since that Scrubs episode first aired, and yet real doctors are no closer to settling their big debate about full-body MRIs. Preventive full-body MRIs are now used in high-end longevity clinics and are available through a growing suite of direct-to-consumer offerings. Prices range from $2,500 or more for a one-hour scan to new AI-assisted offerings that cost $500 and only take about 20 minutes. Stars and longevity fiends, including Kim Kardashian, tout these scans on social media, and everyday patients share real success stories, gripping testimonials of lifesaving insights they've gleaned from scanning their entire bodies for signs of danger. Genetic sequencing pioneer Craig Venter previously told Business Insider that he diagnosed his own prostate cancer "that was about to metastasize" with a high-end MRI "after being told by the best medical system that I didn't have prostate cancer." Full-body MRIs can detect cancer early. But they can also have you parting with thousands of dollars, scheduling numerous follow up appointments to chase little dots on your scans, and in the end revealing nothing. A full-body MRI is like a security camera for your innards The promise of a full-body MRI is that it can uncover dangerous things happening inside you that aren't bad enough — yet — to get picked up on other tests. Danielle Hoeg is a perfect example of how this can work. A non-smoker in her early 40s and mom of three, she told Business Insider she decided to do a Prenuvo scan after some "wonky" blood work was taken at her doctor's office, which suggested something might be wrong. She signed up for a $2,500 Prenuvo scan (not covered by insurance), which took about an hour. The scan highlighted a few things: some moderate spinal degeneration and a lingering sinus infection. It also flagged a "minor" white cloud on her lung, an "indeterminate lesion" that "appears at low risk of becoming problematic," her Prenuvo report found. A blood test for lung cancer came back negative, but a CT scan her doctor ordered showed that, sure enough, that lung spot was likely cancer. She eventually had a stage 1 tumor removed, just three months after her Prenuvo scan. Hoeg was in shock. She was a 43-year-old, healthy non-smoker with lung cancer. How could this be? "I'm not out there smoking, asking for lung cancer, I'm not working in a coal mine," she told Business Insider. Since she caught this cancer early, she didn't have to undergo any aggressive radiation or chemotherapy treatments. She tells everyone she can about her experience with Prenuvo. "I have a little bit less lung, I have some scars, but I'm OK, and I'm here, and I'm with my kids, and swimming and running," she said. Please help BI improve our Business, Tech, and Innovation coverage by sharing a bit about your role — it will help us tailor content that matters most to people like you. What is your job title? (1 of 2) Entry level position Project manager Management Senior management Executive management Student Self-employed Retired Other Continue By providing this information, you agree that Business Insider may use this data to improve your site experience and for targeted advertising. By continuing you agree that you accept the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . Emi Gal, founder of Prenuvo competitor Ezra, recently acquired by Function Health, says this is exactly what full-body scans are meant for. They're helping find cancer that either can't be screened for or won't get picked up on regular screening tests because it's not big enough yet. "My mother passed away from cancer because she found cancer late," Gal told BI. "I've dedicated my career and my life really to helping everyone in the world detect cancer early." The scans can also pick up back and spine problems, aneurysms, liver disease, and cysts. Inevitably, they will also flag many things as worrisome that people don't need to worry about at all, like benign scar tissue or inflammation lingering from a recent illness or injury. The scan can't tell you definitively, "hey, this is trouble." It just shows you when something's there. Are ultrasounds the real untapped medical tool of the future? As the fictional Dr. Cox presciently said on Scrubs, "If you get this scan, the next year of your life is going to be a series of endless tests." Prenuvo says that nearly half of its patients "find something to keep an eye on," but doctors want to know: Are they saving lives? For now, you won't find major medical boards or cancer advocacy organizations recommending full-body MRIs. There isn't the hard evidence they'd need to back up a medical recommendation. "Your end goal is saving years of life, helping people live longer," Dr. Samir Abboud, the chief of emergency radiology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, told BI. If annual scans are overkill, our annual check-ups are often not enough. Independent reviews consistently show that yearly health checks have little to no effect on preventing deadly diseases. Dr. Tim Arling, who runs a concierge medicine practice focused on longevity, says he only occasionally recommends full-body MRIs to his patients. What he's started doing more often is spending a few extra minutes waving a little medical wand over parts of a patient's body as a preliminary scan for trouble. He's using a portable ultrasound machine, the same device doctors use to look at a fetus as it's developing in utero. The technique is common in Japan, where doctors often glide ultrasound wands over a person's thyroid, as an initial screen for cancer. In addition to the thyroid gland, Arling sometimes glides his ultrasound over a patient's liver, kidneys, or aorta, "as a little extension of the physical exam." "If I see something, I'll have a discussion with the patient, we'll decide if we want to do something in real time," he said. The move costs nothing extra to the patient and takes just a few extra minutes. Critically, it also includes the doctor in the discussion from the get-go. Hoeg's stage 1 cancer was graded as a "minor" finding by Prenuvo. If Abboud, who's both a doctor and a friend, hadn't said she should get it looked at ASAP, would she have known to take the finding so seriously? Arling said he went through a "very bizarre three-week period" last year where he ended up flagging a case of early-stage liver cancer, plus another case of early-stage kidney cancer using ultrasounds. "If primary care is trying to catch things earlier, the question comes down to how can we do it in a way that doesn't necessarily add a whole bunch of extra cost or a whole bunch of extra waste?" Maybe "we can start just sort of waving wands over people and getting a little more information," he said. How to decide if you should get a full-body scan: 5 questions to ask For some people, doctors are already in agreement that full-body cancer scans are a good thing. If you have a rare condition called Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which puts you at greater risk of developing all sorts of cancer, annual full-body scans are a go-to, and they're covered by insurance. For everybody else, the jury — a jury full of practicing physicians — is still out. If you're interested in a full-body scan, Dr. Arling recommends weighing a few key factors: 1. What's your family history? You might want to consider a full-body MRI if you've got a family history of cancer. But that scan should be in addition to other recommended cancer screenings you're already doing, Arling said: "paps, mammos, PSAs, colonoscopies, the standard stuff." Another option is a cancer blood test like Galleri. It costs $950. 2. What's your medical anxiety level? If you are anxious about medical care or testing, full-body scans may not be for you. "If you already have that health-anxious person, I'm not super enthusiastic about recommending this test, because they're going to find something," Arling said. 3. What's your level of concern? On the other hand, full-body scans are good at "looking for trouble," Arling said. "If you're really trying to find the thing, not rule out the thing, then the MRI is going to have better data. It has higher sensitivity," he said. It'll be more sensitive than a Galleri test, for example. 4. What's your budget? Is this the best use of a few hundred to a few thousand bucks of your cash? Might you derive more health benefits from putting those dollars into things we know will improve healthy aging, like more exercise, some personal training, better nutrition, or less stress (a nice vacation, perhaps?) "If it gets people being healthy, great, but if it's just a thing that rich people do to flaunt that they're healthier than you, it doesn't quite achieve the goal," Arling said. 5. Is there metal in your body? Finally, full-body MRIs may not be for you if you have metal in your body (sorry). That's because they work by harnessing the power of magnets. There's no harmful radiation involved, but you generally can't wear anything metal, inside or out. (Discuss this with your doctor, though — many surgical implants are designed to be MRI-safe). "A typical three tesla MRI is 60,000 times the strength of the magnetic pull of Earth," Gal said.
