Revisiting Asbestos Related Injuries (and other toxic contaminants)

 PRESS RELEASE 

DETOXSCAN™ Program to Cover Diagnostic Front in Environmental Exposure Care

New York, NY (October 2025) — Twenty-four years after 9/11, thousands of responders and residents are still living with the delayed effects of toxic dust exposure. To address the growing wave of asbestos-related and environmental illnesses, diagnostic imaging specialist Dr. Robert L. Bard has introduced DETOXSCAN™, a precision-imaging program designed to identify early signs of toxin-induced disorders in the skin, lungs, liver, and kidneys.

The Hidden Legacy of Dust Exposure

The collapse of the Twin Towers released more than 400,000 tons of pulverized debris containing asbestos, silica, lead, mercury, benzene, and microplastics.¹ Over 90,000 first responders were directly exposed, and studies confirm continuing increases in respiratory disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancers—including mesothelioma, whose incidence among responders remains nearly 11 times higher than normal populations.²,³

“Dust is not inert—it’s biologically active,” says Dr. Bard. “It carries fibrogenic and carcinogenic particles that continue to inflame tissues decades after exposure.”

But asbestos is only one piece of the modern exposure crisis. Today’s construction, demolition, and fire-recovery environments contain mold spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and combustion byproducts, each capable of triggering oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Workers and nearby residents frequently present with skin irritation, chronic cough, headaches, and fatigue—signs that often precede liver fibrosis, renal damage, or malignancy.

 

DETOXSCAN™: Imaging the Unseen

Dr. Bard’s DETOXSCAN™ applies high-resolution ultrasound, Doppler flow studies, elastography, and thermography to reveal tissue reactions from toxic exposures long before they appear in laboratory tests. By mapping inflammation, vascular disruption, and fibrosis, clinicians can monitor detoxification progress and identify those at risk for chronic illness.

“The skin is a living dashboard of toxic stress,” explains Dr. Bard. “With imaging and AI analytics, we can now translate what it shows into quantifiable clinical data.”

Using pattern recognition, DETOXSCAN™ differentiates exposure-related inflammation from infection or autoimmune disease. The system’s growing image database—built in collaboration with occupational health specialists—links diagnostic visuals to toxin-specific biomarkers, creating one of the first AI-enabled archives of exposure pathology.

Advocacy, Prevention, and Detox Science

The initiative pays tribute to the work of individuals like Anne-Marie Principe, a 9/11 health advocate who continues to champion screening and care for responders. It also honors Dr. David Root, whose clinical detoxification protocols using sauna-niacin therapy demonstrated measurable reductions in stored industrial toxins.⁴ DETOXSCAN™ incorporates such research within a diagnostic framework, allowing clinicians to evaluate the biological results of detox interventions.

“Detoxification isn’t fringe—it’s prevention,” says Dr. Bard. “By integrating imaging, lab biomarkers, and exposure history, we can help protect workers and families long before disease develops.”

---

A National Model for Exposure Medicine

Beyond New York, similar toxic exposure patterns have been documented among wildfire crews, industrial reclamation teams, and urban demolition workers.⁵ Dr. Bard envisions DETOXSCAN™ as a national surveillance model—merging imaging diagnostics with environmental medicine to track the biological footprint of pollution and occupational hazards.

“The dust of 9/11 taught us that toxic exposure is a slow-moving disaster,” Dr. Bard concludes. “Our mission now is to detect the invisible damage early—and give survivors a chance to heal.”

---

References (AMA Style)

1.     Prezant DJ, et al. Respiratory health of 9/11 rescue workers: a 20-year perspective. Lancet Respir Med. 2022;10(8):785-796.

2.     Carbone M, Yang H. Molecular mechanisms of asbestos carcinogenesis. Clin Cancer Res. 2012;18(3):598-604.

3.     Li J, Cone JE, Kahn AR, et al. Cancer incidence among World Trade Center rescue and recovery workers, 2002-2018. JAMA Netw Open. 2022;5(9):e2230595.

4.     Root DE, Hubbard RL. The sauna-niacin detoxification method in the treatment of environmental chemical exposures. Clin Toxicol. 1992;30(5):653-665.

5.     Bard RL, Valle-Montoya L, Goetze L. Image-guided diagnostics for environmental exposure. HealthTech Reporter. 2024;2(3):18-25.

Ultrasound Imaging and Detox Monitoring for First Responders | Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya

3 Patients Scanned with the Terason 3200T Ultrasound (10/3/2025)  

PATIENT 1: Thyroid Ultrasound Impression

Ultrasound imaging of the thyroid gland demonstrates that both lobes are normal in size and contour, with no focal masses or nodules appreciated. The isthmus appears normal and maintains expected thickness, and the distal portions of the right and left lobes show preserved structural continuity without distortion or mass effect. Color Doppler reveals no abnormal vascularity.

Evaluation of the adjacent carotid arteries shows a smooth intimal lining with no evidence of intimal-medial thickening or plaque formation. Arterial flow appears laminar and unremarkable.

However, the echotexture of the thyroid parenchyma is notably altered. In a healthy thyroid, the tissue typically displays a bright, uniform, finely granular “white” echogenic pattern. In this study, the thyroid demonstrates a more heterogeneous, hypoechoic (gray) pattern throughout both lobes. This reduction in normal echogenic brightness suggests early or ongoing inflammatory change. These sonographic characteristics may be consistent with autoimmune thyroiditis (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) or early fibrotic remodeling of the gland. Correlation with thyroid function testing (TSH, TPO antibodies, TgAb, and Free T4) is recommended to determine clinical significance.

No suspicious cervical lymph nodes are visualized, and surrounding soft tissues appear unremarkable.

Conclusion: Normal thyroid size and vascular patterns with preserved carotid intima. Diffuse hypoechogenicity and loss of normal glandular brightness raise suspicion for autoimmune inflammation or fibrosis. Clinical and laboratory correlation advised.

---

PATIENT 2: Thyroid Ultrasound Impression —
Transverse ultrasound imaging of the right thyroid lobe is unremarkable, showing normal size, contour, and echotexture with no suspicious nodules or parenchymal abnormalities. Vascular flow is within normal limits.

In the left thyroid lobe, at the mid-gland level, there is a small cystic lesion measuring approximately 1 × 2 mm. While many thyroid cysts represent benign incidental findings, this particular lesion is notable for the presence of internal micro-calcification, which classifies it as a complex cystic lesion rather than a simple cyst. Micro-calcifications can occasionally be associated with early or evolving papillary thyroid changes, and therefore carry greater diagnostic weight than a typical simple cyst.

Given these characteristics, further evaluation is warranted. Elastography (to evaluate lesion stiffness) and LER (likely referring to a local elastographic ratio or targeted evaluation region) are recommended as part of the next diagnostic step to better characterize this lesion’s biological behavior.

Follow-up Guidance:
Due to the presence of calcification within the cyst, short-interval monitoring is advised. A repeat ultrasound at 6 months, followed by annual surveillance, is recommended to assess stability, resolution, or progression. Earlier re-evaluation may be indicated if there are changes in thyroid function, onset of symptoms, or abnormal laboratory markers (TSH, TPO, TgAb).

Conclusion:
Normal right lobe. Left mid-gland 1 × 2 mm complex cystic lesion with internal micro-calcification. Recommend elastography and short-interval follow-up (6 months, then yearly) to monitor for any evolving pathological features.

---

PATIENT 3: Thyroid Ultrasound Impression 
Transverse ultrasound imaging of both thyroid lobes demonstrates a diffuse low-intensity echogenic pattern, most prominent in the ventral (anterior) portion of each lobe. In a normal thyroid, the parenchyma should appear uniformly bright with a fine, granular texture. In this case, the reduced echogenicity suggests early fibrotic change or chronic inflammatory remodeling of the thyroid tissue.

No focal cystic lesions, nodules, or solid masses are identified. The overall gland architecture is preserved without distortion or displacement of surrounding structures. These sonographic findings raise the possibility of an autoimmune thyroid process, such as early Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, even in the absence of a discrete mass.

Recommended Next Steps:
To more fully characterize tissue stiffness and vascular patterns, the following are advised:

• Elastography to quantify parenchymal rigidity and assess for diffuse fibrosis

• Doppler or “ULAR flow” assessment to evaluate low vascularity, a feature sometimes associated with chronic autoimmune activity

Correlation with laboratory studies (TSH, Free T4, TPO antibodies, and TgAb) will further clarify whether the echotexture changes represent subclinical autoimmune disease, fibrotic remodeling, or another inflammatory etiology.

Conclusion:
Diffuse hypoechoic changes in the anterior thyroid lobes consistent with possible early fibrosis or autoimmune thyroiditis, without focal masses or cysts. Recommend elastography and vascular flow assessment, along with clinical and serologic correlation, to evaluate for autoimmune thyroid disease.

  Science News Feature 

INTEGRATIVE PROTOCOL FOR WILDFIRE & OCCUPATIONAL TOXIC EXPOSURE

As the Los Angeles wildfires continue to rage across the region, first responders once again stand at the front lines—risking not only their safety but also their long-term health. Beyond the immediate threats of heat and smoke inhalation lies a far more insidious risk: chronic exposure to toxicants and carcinogens that can silently damage vital organs and endocrine pathways.

Recognizing this, Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya, M.D., MBA, founder of the Santa Barbara Longevity Center, Biomed Life, and the Brainwave Wellness Institute, has launched a cutting-edge diagnostic and detoxification initiative designed specifically for firefighters and emergency responders. Her program integrates ultrasound scanning—particularly of the thyroid and carotid arteries—with personalized detoxification strategies to monitor recovery, measure efficacy, and protect the cardiovascular and endocrine systems from toxic burden.

---

WHY FIREFIGHTERS NEED ADVANCED IMAGING

Research has shown that firefighters face a significantly increased risk of both thyroid dysfunction and cardiovascular disease due to exposure to combustion byproducts such as benzene, formaldehyde, heavy metals, and flame retardants. These compounds act as endocrine disruptors, altering thyroid hormone balance, while simultaneously promoting oxidative stress and atherosclerotic plaque formation in the carotid arteries.

“Every fire scene is essentially a chemical experiment,” explains Dr. Valle-Montoya. “Even with modern gear, inhaled particulates and dermal absorption introduce toxins that accumulate over time—impacting organs that regulate metabolism and vascular integrity. We can’t afford to wait for symptoms. Imaging allows us to see the early effects before they manifest clinically.”

Routine bloodwork alone often fails to capture these early pathophysiologic changes. Ultrasound, however, provides a real-time, non-invasive, and radiation-free window into both vascular health and endocrine structure. By combining B-mode anatomical imaging with Doppler flow assessment, clinicians can detect plaques, wall thickening, restricted flow, and thyroid nodules long before they become symptomatic or life-threatening.

---

THYROID AND CAROTID SCANNING

Dr. Valle-Montoya’s diagnostic approach focuses on two key imaging targets:

1. Thyroid Ultrasound: Evaluates gland size, texture, and the presence of nodules or inflammation suggestive of autoimmune thyroiditis or neoplastic changes. For firefighters, the thyroid represents a sentinel of chemical stress, as many toxins mimic or disrupt thyroid hormone function.

2. Carotid Doppler Ultrasound: Measures arterial wall thickness (IMT) and flow velocity to assess early signs of atherosclerosis or vascular inflammation—conditions accelerated by oxidative stress from toxic exposures.

The carotid arteries share an intimate anatomical connection with the thyroid gland, primarily through the superior thyroid artery, which branches from the external carotid to deliver blood to the gland. Because of this proximity, clinicians and surgeons must exercise precise awareness of these vascular structures during thyroid procedures to prevent vessel injury or hemorrhage. Beyond their structural relationship, studies have also shown a physiological link between thyroid activity and carotid wall thickness, indicating that thyroid hormones may play an influential role in maintaining vascular integrity and overall cardiovascular health.

Her program employs the Terason 3200T Ultrasound System, a portable, high-resolution diagnostic tool capable of advanced Doppler blood flow visualization. This allows clinicians to quantify perfusion and turbulence, tracking improvements as detox interventions restore vascular tone and reduce inflammatory markers. “The Terason platform is ideal for field diagnostics,” says Dr. Valle-Montoya. “It’s mobile, precise, and provides real-time data we can correlate with detox progress. The Doppler capability is invaluable for monitoring circulation changes during and after sauna or chelation protocols.”

---

Dr. Leslie periodically speaks to Fire Department leaders about her supportive detoxing initiatives

Ultrasound as a Real-Time Detox Biomonitoring Tool: Beyond detection, ultrasound plays a novel role in longitudinal detoxification monitoring—an emerging practice in integrative and environmental medicine. Dr. Valle-Montoya’s responders undergo baseline scans prior to detox initiation, followed by multi-phase follow-ups that visually document physiological responses to treatment.

These treatment phases may include:

• Far-infrared sauna therapy to mobilize and eliminate lipophilic toxins through perspiration.

• Chelation and antioxidant protocols (glutathione, NAC, CoQ10) to reduce oxidative stress.

• Oxygenation and hydration therapies to enhance microcirculation and mitochondrial recovery.

By comparing pre- and post-therapy images, Dr. Valle-Montoya’s team can objectively evaluate vascular compliance, thyroid inflammation, and organ resilience—transforming detox from a subjective wellness pursuit into an evidence-based clinical process.

This methodology aligns with modern precision medicine principles: quantify, visualize, and validate. Each scan contributes to a growing dataset that may help correlate toxin exposure patterns with early vascular and endocrine pathology in firefighters, construction workers, and industrial personnel.

---

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH MEETS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

Dr. Valle-Montoya’s expertise bridges conventional diagnostics and biological medicine—a European-inspired discipline that views the human body as a self-regulating system capable of regeneration when environmental stressors are identified and removed. Through her companies—Biomed Life and Biological Medicine Global Consulting—she trains practitioners worldwide on integrating imaging, lab diagnostics, and detox therapies into holistic treatment plans.

Her nonprofit Brainwave Wellness Institute (501c3) expands this mission to underserved and high-risk populations, including veterans, first responders, and communities affected by industrial or wildfire exposures. “We’re building a framework of care that merges compassion with technology,” she explains. “Firefighters give everything to protect us. The least we can do is provide them with the tools to protect their own biology.”

---

The Future of Imaging-Guided Detox

As wildfire seasons intensify and environmental toxins become unavoidable, Dr. Valle-Montoya’s model demonstrates how ultrasound imaging can redefine preventative care. By capturing early physiologic shifts in vascular flow, glandular structure, and tissue density, clinicians can make timely adjustments to detox and recovery programs.

Unlike MRI or CT scans, ultrasound is safe for repeated use, enabling progressive data collection over weeks or months. This capability transforms detoxification from a static prescription into a dynamic, measurable process—a true partnership between patient and technology.

In collaboration with initiatives such as DetoxScan International and the AngioInstitute, Dr. Valle-Montoya aims to standardize this scanning protocol, ultimately creating a national registry that links imaging biomarkers with environmental exposure outcomes. Such data could revolutionize how public health systems assess occupational risk and prevention strategies.

---

Conclusion: Seeing & Healing in Real Time

Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya’s work epitomizes the evolution of modern integrative medicine—where diagnostic imaging, biological repair, and compassionate care converge. Her application of Terason-based ultrasound for first responders establishes a new paradigm of exposure awareness and recovery monitoring, allowing clinicians to visualize the body’s healing journey in real time. As she often says, “Health restoration begins with awareness. When we can see what’s happening inside, we can truly begin to heal.”

---

Epilogue: A Mentor’s Reflection — Dr. Robert L. Bard on Imaging, Service, and Collaboration

For over four decades, Dr. Robert L. Bard has stood at the intersection of technology and compassion—bringing advanced ultrasound diagnostics into the hands of those working on the front lines of environmental and occupational health. As a pioneer in real-time imaging and tele-interpretation, his mission has always been to extend the reach of precision diagnostics to communities and professionals most exposed to unseen dangers.

“Firefighters, rescue workers, and first responders represent the ultimate expression of public service,” Dr. Bard reflects. “They walk into danger when everyone else is running away—and often, that danger lingers long after the flames are out.”

Dr. Bard’s partnership with Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya reflects this shared commitment to protection through knowledge. As her mentor in ultrasound imaging and telemedicine collaboration, he has witnessed her evolution as a clinician who integrates art, science, and heart into her work. Her application of portable ultrasound for monitoring detoxification progress among wildfire responders is, in his words, “a model of how 21st-century medicine should serve those who serve us.”

Through their collaboration, Dr. Bard provides remote interpretation and comparative analysis of imaging data, reinforcing the integrity of each scan while supporting the education of clinicians adopting these technologies worldwide. Their combined expertise bridges the clinical precision of diagnostic radiology with the regenerative philosophy of biological medicine, forming a partnership rooted in both science and service.

As a strong advocate for programs such as DetoxScan International and the AngioInstitute’s national outreach initiatives, Dr. Bard continues to promote early detection and longitudinal imaging as essential tools for exposure-based health monitoring. He recognizes Dr. Valle-Montoya’s leadership as “a blueprint for the future—where technology empowers doctors to visualize health restoration, not just disease.”

“Every responder deserves the same level of advanced care they provide for others,” Dr. Bard concludes. “Dr. Leslie’s work reminds us that healing is not passive—it’s participatory. By scanning, tracking, and learning from the body’s responses, we turn compassion into data and data into prevention. That’s the power of medicine when it’s led by purpose.”

Disclaimer:
Reference to the Terason® brand and its products is provided solely for informational and educational purposes. This article includes a technology review of the Terason 3200T ultrasound system, as originally featured on the HealthTech Reporter website. Its inclusion here is intended only to illustrate Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya’s clinical use of ultrasound imaging within her detoxification and monitoring program, and does not constitute a commercial endorsement or advertisement.