FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 07, 2002                                                                                             

 “Virtual”Colon Screening Test Now Available in San Diego

Gentle, Non-Invasive and Real-Time Imaging Offered by LifeScore

La Jolla, Calif. – A Southern California disease prevention center has introduced a new colon cancer screening test that may someday replace the dreaded colonoscopy. The new virtual colonoscopy screening test has been introduced by LifeScore® Disease Prevention Center of La Jolla, Calif. as part of its ColonScore program for the early detection and prevention of colon cancer.

“Early detection is the key to prevention, and ColonScore’s high-speed virtual colonoscopy makes that possible,” says Dr. Michael Wright, president and chief medical officer of LifeScore. “Our virtual colonoscopy is a less threatening, non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy, which is the current gold standard for colon cancer prevention.”

In recent studies (Radiology, Vol. 219, pp. 685-692, 2001), virtual colonoscopy has been shown to detect 91% of the polyps that were detected by conventional colonoscopy—a degree of sensitivity considered to be excellent for a screening procedure.

“Studies show that about 130,000 new cases of colon or rectal cancer will be diagnosed in 2002 and 56,000 people will die,” says Wright. “Most of those deaths are preventable, but men and women hate the current colonoscopy procedure, so they avoid the test—but not the consequences.”

The ColonScore scan requires only a light prep, and is performed using an innovative Electron Beam CT scanner. No sedation or laxatives are required, and the individual can immediately resume normal activities when the scan is concluded. The procedure is safe—no risk of bowel perforation and very low radiation for the patient. It’s also complete—a doctor can see 100% of the colon, looking for polyps and other abnormalities.

Unlike many other centers that will soon be offering a similar scan, LifeScore is using a breakthrough enhancement technology from TeraRecon of San Mateo. It makes possible an immediate, 3D, real-time “fly-through” review of the colon. This means the physician can be thoroughly reviewing a patient’s exam even while the patient is getting dressed.

“No other area center is using this technology,” claims Wright. “We like it because it gives doctors more precise imaging detail and viewing options. Our clients like it because they get their results in a much shorter period of time.”

“We are pleased to add ColonScore to our preventive imaging services to help our clients proactively manage their health,” says Dr. Tabita Wright, Associate Medical Director of LifeScore. “This represents an exciting advancement in preventive medicine, and as our center’s history has shown, will be instrumental in helping people live longer, healthier lives.”

Colon Cancer Facts

Colon Cancer Prevention

The most effective behaviors for lowering the risk of colon cancer, without raising the risk of other complications or diseases, are:

About LifeScore

Founded in October 1999, LifeScore (www.lifescore.com) has become a leading preventive medicine and imaging company, and has served more than 8,000 clients from around the world. LifeScore offers comprehensive, preventive healthcare management that encompasses full-body diagnostic imaging, lab tests, lifestyle evaluation, lifestyle modification, and periodic re-evaluations. LifeScore’s mission is to enhance the quality and length of life through early disease detection and programs for prevention. For further information contact LifeScore at 8899 University Center Lane, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92122. Telephone: 858.558.7267 or toll-free: 877.LIFESCORE (543-3726). E-mail Drs. Michael or Tabita Wright at: cmwright@lifescore.com or tawright@lifescore.com.

# # #