Name: Why do hospitals have particle accelerators?
Uploaded: 2019-03-19T18:14:11Z
Duration: 4 min 27 s
Description: Is there a way to detect diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's before they advance too far? Doctors are using injected radioactive drugs that circulate through the body and act as a beacon for PET scanners. These diagnostic tools can detect the spread of diseases before they can be spotted with other types of imaging. So how exactly does this work, and is it safe? Pedro Brugarolas investigates.

Is there a way to detect diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's before they advance too far? Doctors are using injected radioactive drugs that circulate through the body and act as a beacon for PET scanners. These diagnostic tools can detect the spread of diseases before they can be spotted with other types of imaging. So how exactly does this work, and is it safe? Pedro Brugarolas investigates. 

Pedro Brugarolas: Why do hospitals have particle accelerators?

Why do hospitals have particle accelerators?

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Innovations in PET scan technology are mapping the frontiers of Alzheimer’s, allowing early detection of amyloid buildups.

PET scans juxtapose the marvels of medical innovation against radiation concerns, offering low-risk insights into diseases.