One scan, full picture as St. Luke’s boosts preventive care

St. Luke’s Medical Center is intensifying its preventive healthcare push with the launch of its Whole Body MRI (Head-to-Mid-Thigh) Health Scan, positioning early detection as a key pillar of long-term wellness for Filipinos.

The advanced, non-invasive imaging service provides a comprehensive internal assessment in a single session, capturing high-resolution images from the brain down to the mid-thigh. Powered by 1.5-Tesla and 3-Tesla MRI systems, the scan evaluates major organs, soft tissues, vascular structures and the musculoskeletal system — going beyond conventional MRI procedures that typically focus on one specific body region.

Hospital officials said the service aims to detect “silent” conditions that may not surface during routine check-ups, including selected tumors, vascular abnormalities and degenerative disorders. By identifying potential issues early, physicians and patients can pursue timely interventions or closer monitoring.

“Modern medicine is no longer just about treating illness; it’s about preserving health,” Dr. Maricar Reyes, head of the Institute of Radiology at St. Luke’s-Global City, said. She described the scan as a tool for establishing a detailed medical baseline, allowing for data-driven decisions on lifestyle adjustments and long-term care strategies.

Dr. Nelson Pasia, head of the Institute of Radiology at St. Luke’s-Quezon City, said integrating whole-body MRI into wellness protocols reflects a broader shift toward precision-based, proactive healthcare.

The hospital clarified that the scan complements — not replaces — clinically indicated screenings such as dedicated cardiac imaging, colon cancer screening and other organ-specific tests. The radiation-free procedure typically takes 45 to 60 minutes, with results interpreted by board-certified radiologists and released within 24 hours through the hospital’s E-Hub portal.