Accessible magnetic resonance imaging: A review.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biophysics

Background:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is crucial for medical diagnostics and scientific discovery.
• Global access to MRI technology is inequitably distributed, primarily concentrated in high-income nations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze global MRI scanner density in relation to demographic and economic factors.
• To review and categorize recent advancements in accessible MRI technology across various magnetic field strengths.
• To identify strategies for enhancing the global accessibility of MRI.

Main Methods:

• Collation of global MR scanner density data, categorized by WHO geographical regions.
• Analysis of demographic factors (population, life expectancy, internet users) and World Bank income groupings.
• Review of accessible MRI demonstrations, classified by main magnetic field strength (ultralow to ultrahigh).

Main Results:

• Significant disparities in MRI scanner density exist across different global regions and income levels.
• Various accessible MRI technologies have been demonstrated across the magnetic field spectrum.
• Key areas for improving accessible MRI include awareness, local expertise, hardware-cognizant methods, rapid imaging, and cross-disciplinary innovation.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the inequitable distribution of MRI technology requires a multifaceted approach.
• Technological innovations and strategic development are essential for expanding global MRI access.
• Future efforts should focus on democratizing MRI for broader healthcare and research applications.