Radiation From CT Scans Linked to Cancer

Two recent studies published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found radiation from CT Scan linked to cancer in patients decades after their initial exposure.  CT Scans allow doctors to obtain a three-dimensional image of a particular organ or tissue.  Measurements taken in four San Francisco hospitals found that the median recorded doses of radiation encountered by patients undergoing the scans were four times higher than the currently quoted radiation doses.  For example, the study found that one CT coronary angiogram submitted the patient to the equivalent of 309 chest x-rays.  The authors of the study found that one out of 270 patients who underwent that scan would develop cancer as a result of the high radiation exposure. 

Generally, these cancers appear 20-30 years after the procedure.  The research accorded a 50 % mortality rate to the scans, surmising that approximately 15,000 deaths would occur annually.  The authors suggest that radiation protocols must be improved to eliminate the risk.  The radiation patients are submitted to from CT Scans is far more than previously recognized, the authors warned. 

These recently published studies have brought concerns about radiological testing to the forefront.  Doctors and patients must assess these risks when determining the best course of treatment.  If you are concerned about your exposure to potentially harmful levels of radiation as a result of CT scans, you are encouraged to contact your medical provider.  Discussing your personal medical history will allow your physician to determine the next step.  You may also wish to contact an attorney, particularly if you've been diagnosed with a serious illness or cancer related to radiation exposure.  At Kaufman Law, we're available 24 hours a day for a free consultation.  Please call our office at 888-973-2540 (888-WRECK-404) to discuss your legal rights.