Hazards of CT scan

Computed Tomography scans (CT scan) help doctors detecting everything from cancer to stone. However, rising concern about radiation-linked cancer is posing a new challenge. A single CT scan delivers 500 times more radiation than conventional X-ray. Researchers found a population of 25,000 Japanese post-atomic-bomb survivors who were exposed to roughly the same amount of radiation as two CT scans. Although there is no immediate effect after going through CT scan, cumulative risk is very high. In USA they have studied extensively and found the correlation between exposure and future cancer. It has been estimated that 29000 future cancers might be related to CT scan exposures earlier. Children are particularly more vulnerable. To avoid unnecessary CT scans, doctors should advise other alternative choices to the patients. Despite these concerns, CT scans provide great medical benefits. If the scan is justified, the benefits should outweigh the risks.