CT Scans and Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know About Radiation Exposure

Recent studies have raised significant concerns about the long-term health risks associated with computed tomography (CT) scans, particularly their potential to increase cancer risk due to ionizing radiation exposure ⁽¹⁾.While CT scans are invaluable for diagnosing various conditions, including advanced cancer, it's crucial to understand their risks and consider safer, more effective screening options when appropriate.​

What Is a CT Scan

A CT scan is a medical imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images of the body. These images give doctors a more detailed view of internal organs, bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels compared to regular X-rays.

During the scan, the patient lies on a table that slides into a large donut-shaped machine. As the machine rotates, it sends X-ray beams through the body from different angles. A computer then assembles these slices into a 3D image, allowing doctors to spot abnormalities like tumors, infections, internal bleeding, and bone fractures.

Uncovering the Hidden Dangers

This radiation can damage cells and increase the risk of developing cancer over time. A comprehensive study published in JAMA Internal Medicine estimated that in 2023, approximately 93 million CT scans were performed in the United States, potentially leading to up to 103,000future cancer diagnoses . The risk is particularly concerning for children, as their developing tissues are more sensitive to radiation. Research indicates that exposure to four or more CT scans before adulthood can more than double the risk of developing certain cancers, including leukemia and brain tumors.^​(2)

How Much Radiation a CT Scan Uses ⁽³⁾⁽⁴⁾

   *mSv (millisievert) is a unit that measures the effect of radiation on the body. The average person in the United States is naturally exposed to about 3 mSv per year from environmental sources.

     It's important to note that radiation doses can vary based on factors such as the specific equipment used, patient size, and the area being scanned.

While CT scans remain a critical tool in medical diagnostics, it's essential to be aware of their potential risks, especially with repeated use. Seeking other methods of detection, when available, might be better solutions for some people. CT scans are valuable for visualizing structural changes in tissues, such as tumors or abnormal growths. However, they do not detect cancer on a cellular level. A tumor has to grow large enough to appear as a mass or lesion on the scan, which can take time; time that could be crucial in aggressive or fast-spreading cancers. In contrast, Cancer Check looks for circulating tumor cells released into the bloodstream by cancer tumors, as early as Stage 0. And because there’s no radiation involved, it’s a safer option for routine screenings, especially for people at higher risk or those needing repeated tests.

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