The company, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the process, aims to make these scans a routine screening tool for early detection of various health conditions. With a total funding of $41 million, Ezra is currently valued between $100 million and $150 million.

Bryan Johnson, a millionaire entrepreneur and advocate of biohacking, has been highly vocal about his positive experiences with full-body MRI scans. Johnson, known as the "most measured person in human history," believes that these scans, particularly the powerful and comprehensive full-body MRI, provide invaluable insights into one's health. He recently had MRIs done on every joint in his body and is planning to have six more scans in the coming month.

Ezra, founded in 2018 by CEO Emi Gal, offers full-body scans as a pre-screening tool to detect potential health conditions early on, such as cancer and bladder stones. While some medical experts have raised concerns about the overdiagnosis and overtreatment that may result from these scans, Gal argues that for those at risk or with health concerns, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks. Ezra's screening scans cost $2,500 and are not covered by insurance, but Gal aims to lower the cost to around $500 in the next two years.

To make full-body scans more accessible, Ezra does not own any MRI machines. Instead, it partners with existing radiology centers, paying for scanning slots on machines manufactured by GE, Siemens, and Philips. The company's AI software, developed through a neural network trained on a vast database of MRI images, enhances scan quality and reduces the number of images needed for an accurate interpretation. Ezra also utilizes AI tools to analyze and simplify radiology reports for better patient understanding.

However, there are concerns about the potential harm caused by false positives and unnecessary follow-up procedures. Matthew Davenport, a radiologist and professor at the University of Michigan, warns against the cascade of care that may arise from these scans. He suggests that screenings should be based on a patient's individual risk factors and medical history, rather than a universal approach. Long-term data from other countries also indicate the potential for overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment.

Despite these concerns, Gal is confident that increased access to data about false positives and the benefits of early detection will change the perception of full-body scans. Ezra already has deals with self-insured employers to provide scans to certain employees. While health insurers are unlikely to cover these scans, the company aims to shift the mindset of both insurers and detractors through more comprehensive data analysis and the growing demand for full-body scans.

As the biohacking trend gains popularity, Ezra's funding and planned expansion into more than 50 locations throughout the U.S. by the end of the year indicate a growing market for full-body MRI scans. While the debate continues among medical professionals, startups like Ezra and even celebrities like Kim Kardashian, who has shown enthusiasm for rival full-body scanning startup Prenuvo, are contributing to the growth and accessibility of this emerging healthcare technology.