A new study from the University of California – San Francisco found that CT (computed tomography) scans could be responsible for 5% of all cancer diagnoses each year. Researchers estimate that approximately 103,000 future cancers will be caused by CT scans performed in 2023 in the U.S., with lung cancer and colon cancer being the most common types resulting from radiation exposure.
The study, which was published on April 14 in JAMA Internal Medicine, used a well-validated model to estimate cancer risk. However, researchers acknowledge that modeling studies have limitations and may underestimate the true number of cancers caused by medical imaging.
Experts recommend avoiding unnecessary CT scans and using lower doses when possible. Patients should have informed conversations with their healthcare providers about the necessity of a CT scan and whether alternative imaging options might be more appropriate.
CT scans save lives every day, but it’s essential to strike a balance between benefits and risks. Physicians must weigh the advantages of CT scans against the potential harms, especially for younger populations who are at higher risk due to cumulative radiation exposure over a lifetime.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/common-medical-test-linked-cancers-study-suggests-use-them-wisely