Medical imaging technology has helped to vastly advance medicine and make diagnosis faster, more accurate and easier in many cases. X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT and nuclear scans have become integral parts of healthcare. Early diagnosis and treatment is very important to increase survival rates in some cases cancers, cardiovascular disease and other illnesses. However, there is a concern that these imaging tests have become so common that they are used excessively and may cause harm over time.
X-Ray and CT (CAT) Scans Emit Carcinogenic Ionizing Radiation
X-rays and computed tomography (CT) emit ionized radiation in minimal amounts that may accumulate over time in patients that undergo too many scans or in health care technicians that do not follow safety procedures stringently. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans do not emit ionizing radiation; however, it is not yet known what the long term effects are and they should be used with caution and only when necessary.
Health Concerns of Medical Imaging Scans
Undergoing too many medical scans may cause excessive exposure to radiation that can cause cumulative damage over time. As some emit carcinogenic radiation, there is a plausible concern that over time radiation can accumulate and cause cancers in patients that undergo a number of scans. Other concerns for medical scans include:
- Imaging technology is often very expensive and some patient advocates are concerned that medical institutions may over prescribe medical tests in order to recoup these costs.
- Imaging technology may not be needed to determine a diagnosis in all cases. Confirmation of diagnosis can be determined by alternate methods such as blood pathology tests.
- Image scans are not always one hundred percent accurate and may not find cancers or give a false positive reading.
- Some technologies are based on calculations by computer software that is calibrated by technicians. Errors in settings and input may cause incorrect scans or results.
- In some technologies dyes that are injected into or ingested or inhaled by patients are used to provide contrast to images. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to these dyes.
- Nuclear scans require the patient to ingest or be injected with minute amounts of radioactive material which causes the body to emit radiation that is picked up by the scanning equipment. This radioactive material is carcinogenic and can leach from the patient’s body to other people and the environment. The isotopes made for nuclear scans are also expensive, difficult to produce, unstable and harmful.
How to Decrease the Risks from Imaging Scans
Medical imaging scans are beneficial in many ways and can improve medical care. However, like all technology, diagnostic tests must be used responsibly and this onus is also on the patient to be informed and communicate with the doctor or medical caregiver. Methods to decrease risk include:
- Decrease unnecessary tests by discussing why a scan is needed with a doctor. Understand all the risks and benefits of tests.
- Keep careful records of all diagnostic imaging scans and inform doctors of past medical history. A scan that is already done may eliminate the need for a new one in some cases.
- If a patient has already had several scans in their medical history, it may be possible for a different diagnosis technique to be requested. Patients often insist that doctors use the latest technology to confirm diagnosis rather than traditional methods such as blood tests or biopsies which can be accurate in certain cases.
For related information on this topic, see:
- Does Depleted Uranium Cause Cancer?
- What Are Medical Isotopes Used For?
- How do Medical Imaging Scans Work?
Reference:
Noreen Kassem - Noreen Kassem is a hospital doctor based in London, UK. She has extensive experience in clinical research and an undergraduate honors ...
