Why Preventative Imaging Matters in 2026 file

New Year, New Health: Early Detection for a Healthier Future

As we kick off 2026, many people are thinking about resolutions—exercising more, eating better, and taking proactive steps toward lifelong health. One of the most impactful resolutions you can make this year is to prioritize preventive imaging. Screening exams like mammograms, bone density scans, and heart calcium scoring CT detect health concerns before symptoms appear, improving outcomes and saving lives.

Screening Mammograms: Catching Cancer Early

Breast cancer affects many women in the U.S.—about 1 in 8 women (13.1%) will be diagnosed in her lifetime, and thousands of new cases are expected each year. Early detection through regular screening plays a crucial role in reducing mortality. Localized breast cancer has a nearly 99% five-year survival rate, compared to just 32% when diagnosed at a distant stage. [](Source: Provider Newsroom)

Mammography remains the gold standard for routine breast cancer screening. According to the CDC, roughly 80% of women aged 50–74 were up to date with breast cancer screening in 2023, though rates are lower among women in their forties. []

In addition to traditional uses, emerging research captured by ScienceDaily shows that mammograms may offer more value: AI-enhanced analysis can detect breast arterial calcification, which is associated with higher cardiovascular risk—women with arterial calcification face about a 51% greater risk of heart disease and stroke. []

Action Step: Talk to your clinician about when to begin routine mammography based on your age, family history, and risk factors.

Bone Density Scans: Strength You Can Measure

Osteoporosis and low bone density often have no warning signs until a fracture occurs. Despite this, NCBI data shows that fewer than half of women aged 50 and older report ever having a bone density (DEXA) scan. []

In a study, Harvey L. Neiman (Health Policy Institute) found that to improve detection, CT imaging already being performed for other reasons can also be used to screen for osteoporosis “opportunistically,” potentially more than doubling current screening rates. []

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends bone density screening for all women 65 and older and for younger postmenopausal women at increased risk of fracture. Tools like DEXA help clinicians assess fracture risk and guide treatment decisions. []

Action Step: Ask your clinician if you are due for a baseline bone density scan—especially if you’re age 65+, postmenopausal, or have risk factors like family history or prior fracture.

Heart Calcium Scoring CT: Seeing Risk Before Symptoms

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. One way to assess cardiovascular risk is through a heart calcium scoring CT scan, which measures calcified plaque in the coronary arteries—a strong predictor of future heart attack and stroke.

Emerging evidence suggests that imaging done for other preventive purposes may also help indicate cardiovascular disease risk. For example, research shows that men with osteoporosis had a 65% higher likelihood of an elevated coronary calcium score, and women with osteoporosis had up to a 32% increased likelihood of higher calcium scores—highlighting the connection between bone health and heart disease risk ( FinancialContent).

Action Step: If you have cardiovascular risk factors—such as family history, high blood pressure, or elevated cholesterol—ask whether a heart calcium scoring CT is appropriate for you.

Why Early Detection Saves Lives

Preventive imaging empowers you and your care team with information long before symptoms develop. Early detection means:

• Better treatment outcomes
• Lower risk of complications
• More options for care planning

By scheduling recommended screening exams in 2026, you’re taking a proactive step toward a healthier future.

Take Control of Your Health in 2026

Whether it’s your first screening or it’s been some time since your last one, now is the perfect moment to prioritize your preventive care. Talk to your clinician about the screenings that are right for you and schedule your appointments today.

Schedule Your Preventive Imaging Appointment →