CT Scan Risks
Posted By: Sara M 
Date Posted: March 8th, 2010 Category: Health Literacy
Recently I was reading an article in Chicago Tribune regarding the cancer risks caused by CT Scan. I was shocked to know the effects of CT scan on human body and how much it’s prevalent in the country. The article talked almost every detail about the CT scan effects on human body. CT scan showers plethora of X-Rays on human body that can cause cancer in the long run. Though doctors also explained that people should not be afraid of CT scan rather go for this only if it’s essential or required. There are various CT Scan centers where the operators don’t have adequate education or training. This is also one of the major reasons for the adverse effect of CT Scan. If you are suffering from headache or any mild problem and if your doctors suggest you CT scan then make sure to ask for the alternatives that involve less radiation exposure.
Though doctors explain that the radiation effect is not immediate but there are adverse effects reported. Health experts suggest not to request an imaging test just to be on the safe side, nor should they fear the scanning and get scared of the tests.
* This article is written and based on an article published on March 8, 2010, in Chicago Tribune.
Comment By: Jason Merrill
Date & Time: March 9, 2010 at 3:24 pm
At Barnes-Jewish Hospital, we just did a podcast with radiologist Andrew Bierhals on this topic. His message is similar to your post. I have the link here:
http://www.barnesjewish.org/Video/View.aspx?videoID=184
Comment By: Cathy Clough
Date & Time: March 9, 2010 at 6:58 pm
It is interesting that this topic should come up, as I would be curious to know if my cancer was a direct result of numerous CT scans along with many pyelograms. About nine years ago, following a hysterctomy, I developed a hematoma that was pressing on the ureter. To make a long story short, the hematoma would not reabsorb and was closely monitored by both the gynecologist and urologist. I am not sure the total number of scans and IV pyleograms I had. Two and a half years ago, I was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia. I would be very interested to see if there was a direct correlation. I am not sure if my oncologist (at Barnes)would be able to determine this or not.
Comment By: Sara M
Date & Time: March 11, 2010 at 10:28 am
Cathy, as I was reading the article, it mentioned that if your ailment essentially requires a CT Scan then you must do it. Because some ailments are better be detected rather than overlooked just for the scan risk. You can always ask your doctors before going for the scanning. BJC has good doctors, I think it will help you for sure. My concern for posting this article was to let everyone(at least people who read this) know that we should not opt for CT scan for every little problem. As per your leukemia, your doctor would be the best person to ask about this. You know, people like us can read and believe things without any knowledge about the things, but doctors can give us the right reason. I hope you feel better and get cured soon.
Comment By: Diane W
Date & Time: March 23, 2010 at 10:09 pm
There are conversations going on at St. Louis Children's Hospital about how best to monitor the overall x-ray images. There are physicians here who share the concern about how much radiology images are done on children and the overall value in an effort to monitor this in a proactive fashion.