Dr. J Crespo
Concierge Healthcare

Welcome to Dr Crespo’s Blog – Trusted, Personalised Healthcare Insights for Patients

The Truth About Full-Body Scans and Screening Packages

What Marketing Often Doesn't Tell You

Full-body CT scans and comprehensive screening packages are often marketed as the ultimate in preventive care. However, medical evidence presents a different picture:

  • False positives
    Up to 80% of full-body scans detect "abnormalities" that require follow-up but ultimately prove to be harmless.

  • Radiation exposure
    A single full-body CT scan exposes the body to radiation equivalent to 100 to 200 chest X-rays.

  • Psychological burden
    Discovering incidental findings (or "incidentalomas") can cause significant anxiety, even though these rarely change outcomes.

  • Cascade of interventions
    Initial findings often lead to further tests, invasive procedures, and increased costs—without clear benefit.

  • Lack of mortality benefit
    No studies have shown that full-body scanning improves overall survival.

When Advanced Imaging May Be Appropriate

While routine full-body scans are not supported by evidence, some imaging tools do offer value when used for the right reasons:

  • Cardiac calcium scoring
    Useful for refining cardiovascular risk in selected individuals.

  • Low-dose CT scan for lung cancer
    Recommended for current or former heavy smokers who meet screening criteria.

  • Targeted ultrasound
    Helps detect abdominal aortic aneurysms in men with a history of smoking.

  • MRI screening
    Appropriate for individuals with specific genetic cancer syndromes.

Our Philosophy: Personalised Prevention

At [Practice Name], we do not support a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we focus on:

  1. Comprehensive risk assessment
    Going beyond basic algorithms to understand your personal health risks.

  2. Evidence-based screening recommendations
    Tailored to your medical history, lifestyle, and risk profile.

  3. Judicious use of advanced testing
    Only when clinically appropriate and supported by scientific evidence.

  4. Avoidance of unnecessary procedures
    Preventing harm and reducing unnecessary cost.

  5. Lifestyle-based prevention strategies
    Working with you to develop sustainable, long-term health improvements.

We believe that the strongest preventive approach is built on a relationship between an informed doctor and an engaged patient, applying evidence in a way that respects your values and priorities.

The True Cost of Overscreening

Before opting for a comprehensive screening package, consider the following:

  • Every medical test carries potential risks

  • False positives are common and can lead to unnecessary stress and follow-up

  • Unproven screenings often divert resources from what truly works

  • The emotional and financial cost of unnecessary procedures can be significant

Schedule Your Evidence-Based Preventive Consultation

Dr Crespo’s approach is not about doing every test—it’s about choosing the right tests for you. His recommendations are based on your:

  • Age

  • Gender

  • Family history

  • Lifestyle

  • Personal health goals

To schedule a consultation, contact drjcrespo@drjcrespo.com. Together, you’ll build a screening strategy that protects your health while avoiding the risks of overtesting.

Dr Crespo is committed to delivering evidence-based preventive care that maximises benefit and minimises harm. His advice is guided by respected medical organisations, including:

  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

  • American Cancer Society

  • American Heart Association

  • Specialist medical societies

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Marcello Bernardi