A group of researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has warned that cancers associated with radiation from CT scans could soon account for 5% of all new cancer cases annually. Based on a risk model using approximately 93 million scans in 62 million patients in 2023, the authors estimate that around 103,000 future cancers will be linked to CT exams.
The study found that risks are higher in children and adolescents, but most radiation-induced cancers are projected to come from adults with higher CT use. The most common cancers linked to CT scans include lung cancer, colon cancer, leukemia, and bladder cancer. However, the researchers also noted that reducing CT use among low-risk patients and offering alternative imaging options could help mitigate potential harm.
The study’s findings have been welcomed by medical experts, who suggest balancing the benefits of CT with its risks by implementing measures such as reducing variation in radiation technique, educating clinicians about avoiding low-value testing, and involving patients in decision-making. The researchers emphasized that while there is some uncertainty around their estimates, the findings strongly suggest that CT scans are an important cause of cancer in the US.
In a related editorial, experts highlighted the need to address the issue of correlation vs causation and noted that radiation hormesis – the idea that low-dose radiation may have beneficial effects – has been demonstrated in natural experiments. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between CT scans and cancer risk.
Source: https://www.auntminnie.com/clinical-news/ct/article/15742616/ct-estimated-to-cause-5-of-new-cancer-cases