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Imaging’s Role in Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

Imaging’s Role in Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

Why Imaging Matters This February

February is Cancer Prevention Month — a time to focus on reducing risk and detecting disease early. Imaging does not replace routine screening (mammograms, colonoscopy, Pap/HPV), but it can clarify findings, guide biopsy or treatment planning, and help monitor suspicious changes.

 

When Imaging Makes a Difference

Imaging is often used when a screening test or symptom needs further evaluation. Examples include investigating a new lump, a persistent cough, unexplained pain, or an abnormal screening result. Timely imaging can shorten the time to diagnosis and help your care team decide the next steps.

 

Imaging Tests and What They Detect

  • MRI (high-field, high-definition): Useful for characterizing soft-tissue and neurological masses (brain, spine, muscles) and determining whether further evaluation is needed.
  • CT (64-slice, dose-reduction technology): Frequently used to evaluate the chest, abdomen, and pelvis; can detect lung nodules and abdominal masses and assist with image-guided biopsies. Low-dose CT is used for lung cancer screening in eligible patients—ask your provider about criteria.
  • Ultrasound (body and vascular): Effective for evaluating the liver, kidneys, thyroid, pelvis, and superficial lumps; helps distinguish cysts from solid masses and can guide biopsies.
  • Digital X‑ray & Fluoroscopy: X-rays can reveal some bone or lung abnormalities; fluoroscopy is mainly used for real-time studies and procedural guidance.
  • Bone Density Testing (DEXA): Assesses bone health (osteoporosis) and is not a cancer detection test.

 

Working with Radiology to Get Answers

Radiologists who focus on musculoskeletal and neurological imaging collaborate with referring physicians to design imaging studies tailored to each patient’s clinical question. Customizing the exam helps ensure the right technique is used to address whether a finding needs further action, monitoring, or referral.

 

What You Should Do This Cancer Prevention Month

  • Stay current with guideline-recommended screenings for your age and risk factors—ask your primary care provider what applies to you.
  • Report new or persistent symptoms (a lump, prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel or bladder habits) promptly—imaging may be part of evaluation.
  • Discuss imaging options and next steps with your physician if a screening test or symptom warrants further study.

 

Ready to Discuss Imaging? Call Today

To discuss which imaging test is right for you or to schedule an appointment at North Central Surgical Center Hospital, call 214-720-9320. Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 am–6:00 pm. Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled procedure time to complete registration paperwork.

 

Directions to the Imaging Department

North Central Surgical Center Hospital is conveniently located on the southbound access road of North Central Expressway in between Park Lane and Walnut Lane. The hospital is in Tower I (North Tower), on the 2nd floor, Suite 220.

 

From North Central Expressway – Southbound

  • Exit at Walnut Hill Lane and stay on the service road.
  • Go through the Walnut Hill traffic light and continue until you arrive at the white building marked Carrell Clinic Center and North Central Surgical Center Hospital on your right.

 

From North Central Expressway – Northbound

  • Exit at Walnut Hill Lane and stay on the service road.
  • Loop back around underneath North Central Expressway.
  • Continue on the service road until you arrive at the white building marked Carrell Clinic Center and North Central Surgical Center Hospital on your right.

 

 

 

 

Trusted Sources and Further Reading