Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Asia: 2025 Status Update

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the current status of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) practice across Asian regions, guiding future clinical advancements and academic collaboration in CMR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional study is based on presentations from the "Current Status of CMR in Asia" session at the 2025 Asian Society of Cardiovascular Imaging congress held on June 14. Data from nine Asian regions-including China (Mainland), Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong (China), India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam (listed in alphabetical order)-were collected via structured surveys or general overviews, addressing institutional characteristics, technical infrastructure, clinical applications, and research activity. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. RESULTS: CMR scan volumes varied widely across Asia, with high-volume centers reporting from fewer than 100 scans per month to over 20,000 scans per year. Cardiomyopathy and ischemic heart disease were the most common clinical indications, while congenital heart disease or heart failure were also important in some regions. CMR supervision differed by region, with procedures overseen by either radiologists or cardiologists. Key barriers to clinical utilization included high costs, limited scanner availability, and a shortage of trained personnel. Common research obstacles included low scan volumes, inadequate funding, and the absence of multicenter networks. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the need for coordinated efforts to improve scanner access, enhance workforce training, and foster multiregional collaboration to ensure the sustainable growth of CMR practice and research across Asia.