A new study has found that CT scans may slightly increase a person’s lifetime risk of developing cancer. However, researchers and medical experts agree that the overall risk remains very low.
Key Findings from the Study:
- Published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the study suggests that CT scans could be linked to around 103,000 future cancer cases in the U.S.
- That would represent about 5% of all new cancer diagnoses.
- Since 2007, the number of CT scans performed annually in the U.S. has increased by over 30%.
- While CT scans can detect cancer early and save lives, the researchers warn against the cumulative effects of ionizing radiation over time.
Dr. Rebecca Smith-Bindman, a radiologist from UCSF and lead author of the study, said:
“CT can save lives, but its potential harms are often overlooked. If current practices don’t change, many cancers could occur in the future.”
Medical Community Responds:
The American College of Radiology (ACR) emphasized that no direct link has yet been proven between CT scans and cancer. They also highlighted the life-saving benefits of CT scans:
- Early cancer detection
- Reduced need for invasive surgeries
- Improved survival rates and life expectancy
Experts like Dr. Richard Reitherman and Dr. Patricia Nguyen agree that:
- CT scans are essential for diagnosing serious conditions.
- Benefits outweigh risks, especially when used appropriately.
- The clinical value of CT scans should not be ignored.
Radiation and Risk Estimation:
- Researchers used data from 143 U.S. hospitals and outpatient centers (2018–2020).
- Based on this data, they estimated the potential radiation-related cancer cases from CT scans in 2023.
- Children and adolescents may be at higher risk due to developing tissues.
- In adults, the most commonly linked cancers were lung, colon, leukemia, bladder, and breast (in females).
- CT scans of the abdomen, pelvis, and chest were most associated with potential risks.
Dr. Smith-Bindman compared the CT-related cancer risk to lifestyle-related risks like alcohol consumption and excess body weight.
What Are CT Scans?
- scans combine multiple X-ray images to create detailed 3D images of the body.
- These are used to detect tumors, blood clots, internal bleeding, and infections.
- Though they expose patients to more radiation than standard X-rays, they provide critical diagnostic detail.
For example:
- Lung cancer screening through CT scans has led to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.
- CT scans are also vital in detecting pulmonary embolisms, brain injuries, and other emergencies.
What Should Patients Do?
Experts advise patients to:
- Limit unnecessary radiation exposure.
- Discuss alternatives with doctors (like MRI or ultrasound if suitable).
- Ask questions such as:
- What is the radiation dose of this scan?
- Is a dose report available?
- Is there a non-radiation alternative?
Dr. Reitherman emphasizes the importance of shared decision-making:
“Patients should actively participate in discussions about any diagnostic testing, including CT scans.”
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