As part of a joint commitment to health, safety, and early prevention, the teams of Soudal Quick-Step and AG Insurance Soudal have partnered with Canon Medical Systems Europe for their annual health screenings.
This year marks a significant milestone as both the male and female teams joined the training camp in Calpe, Spain, underlining the shared vision of riders’ safety and excellence. Building on the successes of similar testing last year, this year’s program was extended to include enhanced cardiac screening, leveraging high-end ultrasound technologies to ensure comprehensive care for each of our riders. Inspired by its "Made for Life" philosophy, Canon Medical Systems Europe continues to provide healthcare solutions that address real-world needs and concerns of patients, medical professionals, customers, and partners.
Enhancing Early Detection and Prevention
Sudden cardiac arrest remains a critical concern for athletes globally, with potentially life-threatening consequences. Similarly, vision health is paramount for performance and safety in cycling, where rapid decision-making and precise navigation are vital. Recognizing the importance of early detection and prevention in both areas, Canon Medical Systems Europe is providing advanced cardiac (Aplio i900) and eye care (Xephilio OCT-R1) screening solutions as part of the December 2024 training camp. By incorporating our flagship ultrasound systems, the Aplio i900, alongside advanced ophthalmology tools, we aim to provide unparalleled precision in identifying potential health issues.
Through innovative techniques, such as myocardial wall motion tracking, strain, and strain rate analysis, the Aplio i900 delivers deep insights into cardiac performance.
Complementing this, our advanced imaging solutions for eye care enable the detection of conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and other vision impairments that could impact athlete safety and performance. The Xephilio OCT-R1 advances the screening and diagnosis of eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Its compact design and flexible layout make it a perfect fit for any eye care clinic.
With fully automated operation, it enhances both the efficiency and quality of patient care, delivering unmatched OCT performance and exceptional clinical value.
By ensuring that our riders receive tailored evaluations in both cardiac and eye care, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard their health and enhance their performance.
An expanded focus on proactive healthcare via our collaboration with Canon, highlights the importance of both technological advancements and patient-centered care.
With 29 riders and 60 staff members participating in last year’s screenings, this year’s inclusion of both male and female teams demonstrates the evolution and growth of this initiative. Canon Medical Systems Europe’s collaboration showcases the power of partnerships in advancing sports medicine. By providing state-of-the-art imaging solutions and medical expertise, we are helping the team achieve their aspirations while setting a new standard for athlete care.
Supporting Athletes with Advanced Technology
“Canon’s Aplio i900 system has been transformative in our ability to deliver precise and efficient cardiac diagnostics,” said Philip Jansen, team doctor of Soudal Quick-Step. “In addition, the advanced imaging tools for eye care screening enable us to address vision health comprehensively, ensuring our athletes are equipped for the rigorous demands of professional cycling.”
The December training camp in Calpe serves as the perfect platform for these screenings, allowing riders and staff to undergo essential health evaluations in a structured and efficient manner. This comprehensive approach to care ensures that all team members can focus on their performance with confidence and peace of mind.
Canon Medical’s unwavering commitment to innovation and athlete health continues to drive meaningful advancements in medical imaging. By equipping our partners with sophisticated tools and fostering collaborations with elite athletic teams, we are leading the way in promoting safety, performance, and well-being. Together with the Soudal Quick-Step, AG Insurance Soudal Pro Cycling and the Soudal Quick-Step Devo teams, we are proud to set the stage for a successful, healthier, and safer future in sports.
Photo credit: ©Cédric Depraetere