"I don't have time" is one of the most common reasons people put off health screenings. But a preventive CT scan is surprisingly quick — the scan itself takes less than five minutes. To put that in perspective, here are everyday activities that typically take longer.

Hitting the snooze button

Many people hit snooze at least once each morning, and a typical snooze cycle lasts seven to nine minutes. Sleep researchers note that fragmented snooze sleep often leaves people groggier, not more rested.

Getting ready in the morning

Between a shower, brushing teeth for the recommended two minutes, shaving and styling hair, most people spend 20 minutes or more getting ready — before choosing an outfit or making breakfast.

Commuting

The average American commute is around 25 to 30 minutes each way, according to Census Bureau data. Even in metro areas with shorter drives, the trip to work usually takes longer than a scan.

Waiting in line

Between coffee shops, grocery checkouts and drive-throughs, time spent waiting in lines adds up quickly over the course of a day.

Scrolling on your phone

Smartphone users check their phones dozens of times a day, and screen time often totals hours. A few minutes less scrolling would cover the time a scan takes.

What the Scan Involves

At Advanced Body Scan, the CT scan itself takes under five minutes, with no needles, no prep and no need to change clothes. A full visit, including check-in, is longer — typically around 20 minutes for a repeat visit and longer for a first appointment that includes a consultation. Learn more about the full body scan and the scanning technology.

The Takeaway

Daily routines run on autopilot, but health shouldn't. When a scan takes less time than a commute, time doesn't have to be the reason to skip it. Answers to other common questions are on the FAQ page.