Innovative Shorter MRI Scan Could Transform Prostate Cancer Diagnosis for Men Globally

A new streamlined MRI technique promises to revolutionize the diagnosis of prostate cancer by providing a faster, more cost-effective alternative that maintains diagnostic accuracy. Led by researchers from University College London, UCLH, and the University of Birmingham, the PRIME trial demonstrated that a simplified two-part MRI scan, lasting just 15–20 minutes, is just as effective as the traditional 30–40 minute three-part scan that includes a dye injection.

This advancement could significantly improve access to prostate cancer screening worldwide. Currently, many men who need scans do not receive them due to limitations like scan time, staffing, and costs. For instance, in the UK, only about 62% of men who required a prostate MRI in 2019 underwent the procedure. The shorter scan's efficacy in identifying prostate cancer was confirmed in the trial, where it detected important cancers in 29% of patients—matching the results of the standard longer scan.

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among men, with approximately 56,000 diagnoses and 12,000 deaths annually in the UK. MRI scans have been a transformative diagnostic tool in recent years, especially since they help detect abnormalities that guide targeted biopsies, thereby avoiding unnecessary procedures when results are normal.

One of the key benefits of the new biparametric MRI (without contrast dye) is that it reduces the need for a clinician’s presence during the scan, cuts down examination time, and lowers costs. Currently, a full three-part MRI costs around £273 in the NHS, whereas the new two-part approach costs about £145—saving almost half the price. This could be particularly impactful in countries like the US, where healthcare costs are much higher.

The findings could pave the way for wider adoption of this faster MRI method, potentially leading to increased screening rates and earlier detection of prostate cancer. The upcoming TRANSFORM trial, led by UCL researchers, aims to establish the best screening practices and could confirm the benefits of this approach on a larger scale.

Experts like Dr. Matthew Hobbs from Prostate Cancer UK emphasize that making MRI more efficient and accessible is crucial, especially given the predicted rise in prostate cancer cases over the next two decades. The research findings are expected to inform healthcare policy and clinical guidelines, ultimately improving outcomes for men worldwide.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-millions-men-benefit-faster-scan.html