CT scans, or CAT scans, are widely used to acquire internal images of the body and diagnose dangerous medical conditions, but can pose hidden risks.
A new study from the University of California San Francisco found that CT (computed tomography) scans are the cause of 5%. Cancer diagnosis According to a press release, it’s annually.
“There are some uncertainties, but they don’t have a major impact on the conclusions of the core. A small but meaningful proportion of cancer is linked to CT scans, and this number could be reduced.”
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Researchers estimates show that ionizing radiation exposure from CT scans is comparable to other important risk factors. Alcohol consumption And excess weight.
CT scans, or CAT scans, are widely used to acquire internal images of the body and diagnose dangerous medical conditions, but can pose hidden risks. (istock)
According to Smith-Bindman, MD, the researchers updated previous analysis of 2023 data on scan volume, scan type and radiation dose to predict the number of future cancers arising from current CT scans.
“We estimated using a well-validated model Cancer risk And we conducted sensitivity analyses to confirm the robustness of our findings,” she said.
“This is a modeling study. In other words, our conclusions depend on the accuracy of the data used.”
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Based on the review, researchers estimate that CT scans performed in the US in 2023 will cause roughly 103,000 future cancers, with the most cases affecting adults aged 50-69.
The risk of individual cancer is the highest Baby and childbabies under 1 year old are 10 times more likely to develop the disease than other babies in the study.
However, adults are the majority of scans that promote the overall cancer burden, Smith Bindman noted.
“CT doses can be higher than necessary.”
Research shows that the most common types of cancer caused by CT radiation include: lung cancercolon cancer, leukemia, breast cancer.
The study, published in Jama Internal Medicine on April 14th, was funded by the National Institutes of Health.
“If CT is clearly stated, benefits far outweigh the risk,” the researchers said. (istock)
“In many cases, CT is the most appropriate test to achieve a quick and accurate diagnosis,” Smith-Bindman told Fox News Digital.
“However, the use of CT continues to increase, including what is often referred to as “low-value scans,” including an increase in concern for imaging performed without legitimate medical reasons. ”
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Based on the findings, researchers recommend avoiding unnecessary CT scans to avoid potential harm.
Another risk reduction approach is to reduce the amount of radiation per scan.
“We recommend asking patients as CT doses can be higher than necessary. Healthcare provider Or technicians who use the lowest possible dose for scans,” advised Smith Bindman.
“A small but meaningful proportion of cancer is linked to CT scans and can reduce this number.” (istock)
Ultimately, the researchers said patients should be informed of conversations with healthcare providers about the need for CT scans and whether alternative imaging options such as ultrasound and MRI are more appropriate.
“If the CT is clearly stated, the benefits far outweigh the risk,” she said. “But if not, it’s best to avoid scanning altogether.”
“When it comes to good patient care, there are times when it comes to that little.”
Dr. Nicole Saphier, a board-certified radiologist and contributor to Fox News Medical, was not involved in the study, but commented on the risks and benefits of CT scans.
“I have long advocated for the wise use of medical imaging. Patient careShe told Fox News Digital.
image
“Recent research linking ionized radiation from CT scans to increased risk of cancer has highlighted what many in the medical community have understood for many years. Imaging is a powerful diagnostic tool, but it is not without risk.”
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Saphier said the study could even underestimate the total number of cancers caused by medical imaging.
“Many cases of medical intervention-induced cancer may not be recognized due to the long latency period, complex interactions of contributors, and the fact that they omitted radiation from them. Image guidance procedureX-rays and other forms of medical radiation from this study,” she noted.
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“With the increasing number of imaging uses and medical interventions, lifelong cumulative radiation exposure is an increasingly important consideration, especially in younger populations.”
That said, Saphier continues, with CT scans and other medical imaging modalities that are “fast and inexpensive” saving lives every day.
Based on the review, researchers estimate that CT scans performed in the US in 2023 will cause roughly 103,000 future cancers, with the most cases affecting adults aged 50-69. (istock)
“The key is balance. Doctors should remain vigilant about weighing the benefits against risk, and should always explore alternative modalities when appropriate, such as ultrasound and MRI without ionizing radiation.”
Informational decisions are essential for both Clinicians and patientsAccording to the doctor.
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“We need to continue to improve our protocols, limit unnecessary imaging, and ensure that we are using the lowest possible doses without compromising diagnostic quality,” concluded Saphier.
“This is not a call to avoid CT scans. We ask for wise use.”
