Can you detect lung cancer?
Our full-body MRI includes the chest and may detect lung masses, lung nodules, and other chest abnormalities.
When a finding is identified, we classify it using the ONCO-RADS system (Oncologically Relevant Findings Reporting and Data System), a standardized scale from 1 to 5 that categorizes findings by the likelihood of clinical significance:
- ONCO-RADS 1–2: normal or almost certainly benign, no action needed
- ONCO-RADS 3: probably benign, may warrant follow-up imaging in 6–12 months
- ONCO-RADS 4–5: suspicious or likely significant, our medical team will discuss the findings with you and guide you on next steps, including referral to a pulmonologist or other specialist
This classification helps ensure that every finding is communicated clearly and acted on appropriately.
That said, MRI is not the primary screening tool for lung cancer. Low-dose CT is the gold standard, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers or former smokers). CT provides sharper images of lung tissue and is better at detecting very small nodules. A dedicated lung CT can also be arranged on request.
See our conditions overview for more on what our screening may detect.
