Radiology risks and benefits. Read about balancing risk & benefit.

Radiology risks and benefits. When effective, such communication promotes patient autonomy, alleviates unfounded patient apprehension, and mitigates medicolegal liability. Understand risks, benefits, and advancements in technology. May 1, 2020 · Medical imaging is the main source of artificial radiation exposure. In this context, radiation risk communication is a key component of good practice in medical imaging. Although the potential benefits of mammography nearly always outweigh the potential harm from the radiation exposure, women should talk with their health care providers about the need for each x-ray. There are always some possible risks from exposure to ionizing radiation in healthcare, but these procedures should be used when the health benefits outweigh these risks. methods morbidity as well of individual as the public diseases health is to aim of lower Communicating the risks, benefits, and alternatives to a planned medical intervention is integral to high-quality patient care. This article reviews the existing literature on diagnostic and medical imaging of pregnant women, the risks and safety measures of different medical imaging modalities, and alternative modalities for imaging pregnant patients. Find out what to expect during your radiation therapy treatment. This ionizing radiation can affect the atoms in living things, so it poses a health risk by damaging tissue and DNA in genes. For example, according to the University Diagnostic Medical Imaging (UDMI), open surgery typically involves more blood loss and a higher risk for infection and other complications than interventional radiology. 1136/bmj. Jul 10, 2024 · Prostate surgery and radiation are both effective treatment options for early stage prostate cancer. Radiation therapy can cause different side effects depending on what area of your body is being treated. Ionizing radiation is a factor with indispens-can lead benefits, to serious but with health its reckless use and irrational exposures, it problems. This study explores how much risk children are being exposed to and how we can, as practitioners, make informed decisions about when or when not to order CT scans. Mar 12, 2021 · The ionizing radiation is very important risk factor. » Types of Radiation | Radiation Dose | Radiation Protection | At What Level is Radiation Harmful? | Risks and Benefits Radioactivity is a part of our earth - it has existed all along. Learn about the similarities and differences of both cancer treatments. Justification involves an appreciation for the benefits and risks of using radiation for procedures or treatments. Twelve strategies are discussed in this article Heightened awareness about the radiation risks associated with CT imaging has increased patients' wishes to be informed of these risks, and has motivated efforts to reduce radiation dose and eliminate unnecessary imaging. Thus, identification and presentation of the radiation risks and of the risk/benefit ratio to patients and professionals are main areas of focus of this communication [1-2] . 295. Feb 17, 2023 · Computed tomography (CT) has witnessed tremendous growth in utilization. Among these is a lack of understanding by the general population and health professionals of the benefits and risks of medical radiation, which is compounded by unfamiliar terminology and units of measure. One value that is widely cited is from the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Report No. Talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of a CT scan. Sep 19, 2024 · Ultrasound imaging (sonography) uses high-frequency sound waves to view soft tissues such as muscles and internal organs. Feb 19, 2025 · Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses concentrated radiation beams to kill cancer cells. Alongside its clear clinical benefits, CT imaging exposes patients to ionizing radiation. Healthcare professionals use the lowest dose of radiation to get the needed medical information. Since 2007, the number of annual CT exams has surged by 30% in the U. Ionizing radiation has contributed enormously to dramatic improvements in medical care. Today x-rays remain a valuable tool in diagnosis and treatment of many injuries and diseases. What Is a CT Scan? May 13, 2025 · In this comprehensive article, we will unpack the risks and benefits of radiology during pregnancy, focusing on pregnancy safety, fetal exposure, patient education, and the various imaging techniques available. The number of X-rays, specifically CT scans, performed on patients in the United States is increasing exponentially every year. Another way to think about risk is to focus on what probably won't happen. It has different types, such as external beam radiation and internal radiation. Sep 19, 1987 · Risks and benefits in radiologyBr Med J (Clin Res Ed). Additional information on benefits and risks of X-ray imaging, including CT are found on the Medical X-Ray Imaging web page. As part of the Association of Academic Radiology’s 2025 Radiology Research Alliance task force The benefits of properly performed and clinically justified CT examinations should always outweigh the risks for an individual child; unnecessary exposure is associated with unnecessary risk. Internationally developed radiation protection recommendations were formalized starting in the late 1920s. CT risks during pregnancy If the abdomen or pelvis is not being imaged, such as in chest or head CT, there is no risk to the baby from radiation. the impact It is well of of oncological diseases. Computed tomography (CT) and X-ray carry a stochastic lifetime risk of inducing malignancy. The benefits of exposure Mar 7, 2025 · Are dental X-rays safe? Learn about radiation exposure, safety measures, and why X-rays are essential for early detection of dental issues. harvard. Jan 9, 2025 · Radiation therapy is a key treatment for various types of cancer, using high-energy radiation to destroy or shrink cancer cells. In the case of diagnostic and interventional radiology this is related to significant overexposures of individual patients with the risk of deterministic effects (individual approach) or a group of patients with the risk of stochastic effects (collective approach). The purpose of Feb 21, 2023 · The risk of harm from this radiation exposure is low, but repeated x-rays have the potential to cause cancer. It is imperative to use properly and prevent misuse or overuse. It examines the benefits, such as reduced recovery times and minimized surgical risks, and addresses the potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and radiation exposure. Children are at most risk for long term damage from this increase in radiation exposure. While there are other, less energetic, types of non-ionizing radiation (including radio waves, microwaves—and visible light), this booklet is about ionizing radiation. Apr 7, 2025 · Weighing the Benefits Against the Risks In most cases, the benefits of diagnostic imaging greatly outweigh the risks. Learn more about how these IR procedures have revolutionized healthcare. Trust SK Radiology to provide safe, accurate, and compassionate care every step of the way. Get the facts on why it’s done and what to expect. X-Rays – Benefits and Risks X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, just like light waves and radiowaves. But using the ionizing radiation has many benefits in medicine, specifically in the means of prevention, diagnostics, and therapy of various diseases. The implementation of an effective communication strategy in paediatric imaging often requires unique considerations. The more advanced types of imaging can display 3-D pictures within the arteries and provide clues to future cardiovascular events. The radiation dose and associated risk delivered to each woman for a single examination is dependent upon age, breast density and breast thickness, however the average mean glandular dose is around 2. GENERAL X-RAY (RADIOGRAPHY) X-ray uses a very small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Sep 3, 2025 · Medical imaging plays an increasingly central role in the diagnostic workup and management of patients. Find the most relevant advantages and disadvantages of working in radiology. Apr 29, 2024 · Benefits of interventional radiology IR offers treatments that are less invasive, carry fewer risks, and require significantly less recovery time compared to traditional surgeries. Explain to patients how the risk of ionizing radiation increases their risk of developing cancer. 1 Ionizing Feb 15, 2024 · Facts About Imaging Procedures At a glance Radiation and radioactive materials are used every day in medical settings to improve health outcomes. Because X-rays have higher energy than light waves, they can pass through the body. Interventional Radiology (IR) is an exciting and growing medical specialty that enables doctors to perform surgical procedures in order to diagnose, treat and cure a variety of conditions in a minimally invasive way. Physicians, surgeons, and radiologic personnel all play a key role in educating patients on the potential adverse effects of radiation exposure. Studies have shown that lower milliampere-second (mAs) settings can be used for children without significant loss of information. This approach drastically reduces the patient's discomfort and the risk of infection. 6600. On this page: Description Benefits-Risks Benefits Risks Balancing benefits and risks Information for Patients Questions to ask your health care provider Information for Health Care Providers Articles about safety in diagnostic and interventional radiology exams and radiation therapy. Learn about the benefits and risks. Apr 10, 2025 · Balancing Benefits and Risks To maximise the benefits of AI in medical imaging while mitigating the risks, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Pregnant patients may experience nonobstetrical emergencies over the course of their pregnancy, in-cluding appendicitis, renal colic, ovar-ian torsion, hemorrhagic ovarian cysts, trauma, and pulmonary embolism. 1 Discover the ins and outs of radiation therapy (radiotherapy), its types, uses, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment. Different medical CONCLUSION We examine the rationale for informed consent and risk communication, draw on the literature on the psychology of radiation risk communication to increase understanding, examine methods commonly used to communicate radiation risk, and suggest strategies for improving communication about medical radiation benefits and risk. Nov 14, 1987 · MeSH terms Hospital Departments / standards* Humans Radiation Protection Radiology Department, Hospital / standards* Risk Factors Obstetrician– gynecologists and other health care providers caring for pregnant and breastfeeding women in need of diagnostic imaging should weigh the risks of exposure to radiation and contrast agents with the risk of nondiagnosis and worsening of disease. Oct 25, 2024 · Mammograms may be recommended when believed that the benefits outweigh the risks for your health. Learn how this affects patient care and health policies. Jul 18, 2010 · Granted, the risk of morbidity and mortality from undiagnosed disease may dwarf the risks of radiation, but long-term oncologic repercussions may cause practitioners to rethink the amount and frequency of ionizing diagnostic studies they order. Oct 31, 2014 · A CT scan can be an important diagnostic tool, although radiation dose and contrast agents pose some health risk. A specialist in radiology agrees that the benefits of Mr Smith having the CT scan are greater than the risks from the radiation dose or from not finding out what might be wrong. Jan 26, 2018 · Communicating benefits and risks in a comprehensible manner while presenting and discussing complex technical material with associated uncertainties is a challenge that could result in potential harm if the patient avoids appropriate and medi- cally necessary imaging because of misun- derstanding or unfounded fears [34–38]. Mounting health worries over radiation risks are now driving efforts to limit avoidable CT scans and to reduce radiation doses where possible. 15 – 20 Yet, knowledge regarding potential radiation-induced cancer risk from CT among both groups is poor. May 22, 2023 · There are three basic principles of radiation protection: justification, optimization, and dose limitation. Minimizing Radiation Exposure While DXA scans already involve minimal radiation, healthcare providers typically take extra precautions to ensure the lowest possible exposure. It is used to help diagnose and monitor treatment for a variety of conditions. In addition, physicians can play a role in reducing radiation risk to their patients by considering these risks when making imaging referrals. An overwhelming majority of both providers and patients/caregivers believe that communicating radiation risks before CT scans are important. Feb 8, 2022 · Interventional radiology offers a host of benefits compared with traditional open surgery. Provides detailed information to help decide whether surgery is a good treatment option. We work to strengthen radiation protection of the public, patients and workers worldwide. Learn more here. 95% chance of not getting cancer. The amount of radiation used in normal CT imaging has never been shown to cause harm to an unborn child. Dec 1, 2020 · Risk communication related to radiation has become more important during the last decade. Radiation therapy is another important medical use of radiation, but is outside the scope of this fact sheet. Veterans may be eligible for disability compensation and health care for these diseases. Get free, credible and accurate information about medical imaging tests and procedures. Jul 2, 2024 · This article explores the primary procedures in interventional radiology, including angioplasty, embolization, biopsies, and ablations. Jul 2, 2024 · Radiation therapy is a common means of treating many types of cancer. For example, if there's a one in 2,000 chance of getting cancer from a procedure, that means you have a 99. There are more than 330 million dental x-ray examinations annually, the majority being intraoral examinations, with steady increases in panoramic and cone-beam computed tomography. Mar 17, 2025 · Despite the ongoing debate about the balance of benefits and risks, for most women, mammography is the most effective breast cancer screening test used today. Minimally invasive: Most IR procedures involve only small incisions. Although radiation provides significant benefit to many women with breast cancer, it is also associated with risks of toxicity, including cardiac and pulmonary toxicity, lymphedema, and secondary malignancy. Radiologists provide enormous benefits for patients—identifying diseases that could not otherwise be diagnosed or staging disease severity to Nov 1, 2023 · Doctors use CT scans to look at blood clots, tumors, bone fractures, and more. This article explains everything about X-rays. Good medical practice encompasses effective communication about benefits and risks of health interventions. The risks and benefits involved with MRI scans. X-rays are usually fast and easy and are particularly useful in emergency diagnosis and treatment. This section discusses different approaches to establish this dialogue. Describe patient safety standards and resources on patient safety standards in the United States. Anxiety from the perceived risks associated with CT can deter referring physicians from ordering clinically indicated CT scans and patients from Effective radiation risk communication is a core competency for radiology care providers and can prevent and resolve potential conflicts while helping achieve effective public health safeguards. This includes: Rigorous testing and validation: ensuring that AI algorithms are accurate, reliable, and free from bias. Apr 14, 2025 · Third, reducing radiation dose, such as with digitization, and reducing variation in radiation technique and dose with standardization and training across imaging centers can mitigate risk. Sep 30, 2013 · Pregnant patients may experience nonobstetrical emergencies over the course of their pregnancy, including appendicitis, renal colic, ovarian torsion, hemorrhagic ovarian cysts, trauma, and pulmonary embolism. Presumptive conditions for ionizing radiation Apr 18, 2025 · Discover the safety, potential risks, and benefits of common diagnostic tests such as CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and colonoscopies. Their survivors also may be eligible for survivors' benefits. There are radioactive gases in the air we breathe Nov 23, 2012 · CONCLUSION. ” It is 5 x 10 -5 per person mSv. What Communicating the risks, benefits, and alternatives to a planned medical intervention is integral to high-quality patient care. The ionizing radiation dose for these procedures is typically higher than the dose received from a common x-ray procedure. The authors present a synopsis of the challenges to holding such dialogue and review published methods for strengthening and maintaining this discourse. Diseases Associated with Ionizing Radiation Exposure VA recognizes certain diseases as related to ionizing radiation exposure during military service. 5-3 mGy, and this would result in 65 induced cancers and 8 deaths per 100,000 women over a screening lifetime from 40-74 years. We gleaned important information, from published evidence and Feb 15, 2024 · Benefits and Risks of Medical Imaging with Radiation Benefits Gives healthcare providers a better view of organs, blood vessels, tissues, and bones. The excellent article by Drs Cardinal, Gunderman, and Tarver [1] tracing the ethical basis and legal history of informed consent brought us to the doorstep of the latest dilemma regarding this topic: should radiologists discuss all possible adverse effects arising from exposure to ionizing radiation with, and then obtain informed consent from, patients before their undergoing diagnostic Mar 9, 2024 · Radiation safety requires balancing beneficial uses and risk mitigation, evolving with advances and ongoing stakeholder commitment. As imaging technologies evolve, the radiology community faces the challenge of balancing the diagnostic benefits of medical imaging with the potential risks associated with ionizing radiation. Jun 1, 2011 · The topic of medical radiation adds to the usual challenges of effective medical communication some special challenges of its own. With respect to the risks of radiation, it is helpful to explain that the risks of radiation have been examined in a large number of studies and that scientific and governmental organizations examining this evidence have concluded that the risks of CT imaging are thought to be low to nonexistent. Nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 20 men over the age of 50 are affected by osteoporosis. Learn the definition, types, benefits, risks, and measurement of radiation in science and everyday life. Apr 25, 2025 · News stories often talk about radiation dangers (risks), but these tests also help patients in important ways (benefits). Jun 9, 2025 · Radiology is a branch of medicine that involves using radiant energy to diagnose and treat diseases. The topic of medical radiation adds to the usual challenges of effective medical communication some special challenges of its It is treacherous to discuss risk in oral and maxillofacial radiology. org offers easily understood information on imaging and radiation oncology procedures - including how these work, how to prepare for them, benefits and risks, and r elative radiation doses used. 1987 Sep 19;295 (6600):685. Read about balancing risk & benefit. Learn its applications, benefits, risks, and how it aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment. The process involves the use of medical imaging such as Digital Radiography (X-RAY), Ultrasound Feb 20, 2023 · Like all cancer treatments, radiation therapy has pros and cons. The Jan 11, 2019 · Pediatric computed tomography scans: Weighing the risks and benefits A new study suggests that computed tomography–related radiation may increase the risk of brain tumors, but the conversation, physicians say, is complex—and far from settled A fact sheet that describes the CT scan procedure and technology and its uses in screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Deterministic Effects (Threshold or Nonstochastic Effects) Your oral maxillofacial radiology guide, with information on the benefits & risks of the dental specialty, & the various technologies radiologists use. May 21, 2021 · Introduction Risk communication related to radiation has become more important during the last decade. We provide Member States with evidence-based guidance, tools and technical advice on public health issues related to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Apr 14, 2025 · Radiologyinfo. Benefits from medical procedures greatly outweigh the potential small risk of harm from the amount of radiation used. Learn about the risks, benefits, and recovery process to make informed decisions about your healthcare. Sep 8, 2025 · Computed tomography (CT) has become an indispensable diagnostic tool. While any health decision is a personal one that involves weighing benefits and risks, most health organizations recommend women get screening mammograms on a regular basis. Naturally occurring radioactive materials are present in its crust, the floors and walls of our homes, schools, or offices and in the food we eat and drink. Get free, accurate and credible information about medical imaging procedures and tests. In fact, head and neck radiation treatment can increase the risk of developing tooth decay, making the radiographs all the more important for these patients. For example, it is important to communicate that risks can be controlled and benefits maximized by selecting an appropriate procedure and using methods to reduce patient exposure without reducing clinical The excess relative risk (ERR) gives the number of excess fatal cancers (excess above the naturally occurring rate) predicted by the model in a large population of people exposed to radiation. Communicating the risks, benefits, and alternatives to a planned medical intervention is integral to high-quality patient care. Much has recently been written about radiation, so it is May 9, 2025 · What are the benefits and risks of getting a CT scan? Benefits: Fast, accurate diagnosis with detailed images Ideal for emergencies and presurgical planning Risks: A small risk for radiation-induced DNA damage Small potential for increased risk of cancer with multiple scans over time Potential allergic reaction to the contrast dye (if used) CT Radiation Risks in Children: Need for Concern Depending on the machine settings, the organ being studied typically receives a radiation dose in the range of 15 millisieverts (mSv) (in an adult) to 30 mSv (in a neonate) for a single CT scan, with an average of two to three CT scans per study. The topic of medical radiation adds to the usual challenges of effective medical communication some special challenges of its Since its introduction in the 1970s, computed tomography (CT) has revolutionized diagnostic decision-making. If you're interested in radiology, learning more about the potential benefits and drawbacks of this career can help you determine whether this role fits with your career Mar 27, 2018 · Learn more about the benefits and advantages of clinical radiology. . May 21, 2024 · Both chemotherapy and radiation are treatments for cancer, but they work in different ways. Dec 25, 2024 · Discover the essentials of radiography in modern healthcare. Dec 12, 2014 · The system of radiological protection aims to control radiation risks without unduly limiting the potential benefits for individuals and for society. Informing patients of benefits, risks, and alternative imaging methods is necessary to make informed decisions. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you have before a DEXA scan. Jul 11, 2023 · This article covers the pros and cons of being a radiologist. This review provides an overview of published literature with a focus on nuclear medicine patients on the level of awareness of radiation exposure from diagnostic imaging. Can be used to guide medical procedures to place catheters, stents, or other devices inside the body (fluoroscopy, a type of imaging). Radiation from diagnostic imaging modalities, such as computed tomography, mammography, and nuclear imaging, are minor contributors Jan 30, 2025 · Your healthcare provider may recommend a DEXA scan if you have any of these other risk factors. Indeed, patients now have ready and open access to their radiology reports through patient web portals. But CTs expose patients to ionizing radiation — a known carcinogen — and it’s long been known that the technology carries a higher risk of cancer. Learn more about new imaging techniques. 115, “Risk Estimates for Radiation Protection. Sep 7, 2018 · Learn more about Radiation Risk of Medical Imaging for Adults and Children. known risk factors that role conversely, the public to health promote minimize impact of protective factors. Are the risks worth it? Apr 14, 2025 · Benefits and potential dangers CT is both indispensable and widely used to detect tumors and diagnose many illnesses. Oct 13, 2021 · Medical imaging with computed tomography (CT) is an increasing source of population exposure to ionizing radiation, and a growing body of evidence, including the large study by Bastiani et al,1 indicates that patients have limited understanding about imaging, wish to be informed of the risks, but The best available risk estimates suggest that paediatric CT will result in significantly increased lifetime radiation risk over adult CT. Oct 1, 2024 · The main radiation effects on the tissues have been divided into the deterministic/threshold effects and stochastic/nonthreshold effects. Discover how radiology balances CT scan benefits and radiation risks, ensuring safe, justified and optimised patient imaging. 685. edu Radiation is important in health and disease. Aug 30, 2025 · Radiation is energy in motion. 10, 16, 21 – 23 Most recent statistics show that 48% of physicians and 72% of trainee Jun 9, 2025 · Learn about what a radiologist is, discover the different types of radiology specialties and explore the pros and cons of being a clinical radiologist. We examine the rationale for informed consent and risk communication, draw on the literature on the psychology of radiation risk communication to increase understanding, examine methods commonly used to communicate radiation risk, and suggest strategies for improving communication about medical radiation benefits and risk. 6 days ago · A study led by UCSF and UC Davis concluded that radiation from medical imaging is associated with a higher risk of blood cancers in children. The potential risks of radiation-based medical imaging have, however, drawn considerable attention in recent years. Radiation emitted during fluoroscopic procedures is responsible for the greatest radiation dose for medical staff. Oct 15, 2019 · Risks and Benefits of Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injection for Treatment of Osteoarthritis: What Radiologists and Patients Need to Know Effective radiation risk communication is a core competency for radiology care providers and can prevent and resolve potential conflicts while helping achieve effective public health safeguards. Explore the intricacies of radiation dosage in CT scans. DEXA scans should be used when the health benefits outweigh the risks. Known risks of therapeutic radiation include coronary artery disease and secondary malignancy. Informed consent dictates that patients appreciate the risks and benefits of imaging techniques that use ionizing radiation. Screening mammography is no exception and in particular concerns around the use of radiation to help diagnose cancer must be addressed. Explore innovations and future trends in medical imaging today! Mar 6, 2025 · The benefits of interventional radiology are numerous. Aug 9, 2025 · Abstract Every physician seeks to do more good than harm. 1 Ionizing Jan 17, 2025 · A CT scan can be an important diagnostic tool, although radiation dose and contrast agents pose some health risk. Mar 16, 2018 · Effective radiation risk communication is a core competency for radiology care providers and can prevent and resolve potential conflicts while helping achieve effective public health safeguards. 🏥💡 Jul 7, 2023 · The risk of developing adverse health effects depends on the radiation dose. Although such concern is beneficial in terms of critical evaluation and optimization of imaging … By understanding the risks and benefits of X-rays, you can feel confident in your healthcare decisions. A career in radiology may appeal to someone who has an interest in medicine, imaging, data, patient care and technology. May 22, 2023 · Radiation safety is a concern for patients, physicians, and staff in many departments, including radiology, interventional cardiology, and surgery. 15 Most Mar 3, 2025 · However, concerns about the radiation risks often lead patients to ask, "Are CT scans safe?” In this guide, we’ll explore the safety of CT scans, the risks associated with radiation exposure, and when the benefits outweigh potential concerns. While it offers significant benefits in treating cancers, it also comes with potential side effects. Sep 8, 2025 · Radiology is the field of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases. The increasing use of ionizing radiation in medical diagnosis and radiation therapy has brought significant societal benefits. Learn about the types, procedures, and more. The higher the dose, the higher the risk of adverse effects. Informing patients of benefits, risks, and alternative imaging methods is necessary to make Jan 1, 2025 · This is because children are more sensitive to radiation, and the potential risks may outweigh the benefits unless there’s a pressing medical reason. The utilization of computed tomography (CT) in the diagnosis of diseases such as these has increased in recent years, and the same trend is observed in pregnant women. Pertinent trends of increasing radiation in the environment need analysis. If the radiation dose is low or is delivered over a long period of time, the risk is substantially lower because the damage to cells and molecules will be repaired by the body. Despite its immense benefits, there is a growing concern from the general public and the medical community about the detrimental consequences of ionizing radiation from CT. Feb 20, 2024 · Machine used for a thyroid scan. Most IR treatments are alternatives to procedures that once required open surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate radiographers’ knowledge of radiation dose and risk, and their experiences with radiation risk communication. And newer, faster machines and techniques use less radiation than older CT scans did. While additional exposure to radiation can be harmful to human health in certain doses, the benefits of diagnosing or treating health problems with ionizing radiation usually outweigh the risks involved. Minimizing radiation exposure from pediatric CT, whenever possible, will reduce the projected number of CT-related cancers. A new study has found that about 103,000 future cancers are projected to result from … Introduction Radiation risk-benefit communication can be defined as the communication of information about the potential benefits and risks of a radiation-based examination as well as the alternative imaging methods available to the patient. One of the major concerns associated with the widespread use of CT is the associated increased radiation exposure incurred by patients. Information for Patients and Parents Jul 27, 2023 · WHO fact sheet on ionizing radiation, health effects and protective measures: includes key facts, definition, sources, type of exposure, health effects, nuclear emergencies, WHO response. Evidence, however, suggests that patients are poorly informed about radiation exposure when attending diagnostic scans. Images of the human body are created using a variety of means such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance, nuclear medicine and X-rays to allow physicians to see inside the body, to identify and/or rule out medical problems, and to diagnose diseases. Exposure to ionizing radiation is the primary risk of many modalities, and most of these imaging tests emit radiation at far lower levels than we receive from the world around us. The topic of medical radiation … Effective and balanced communication of radiation risks requires sufficient background, education and resources to support the risk – benefit dialogue, particularly in pediatric patients. The bases of some diagnostic methods are the imaging technique that produces the ionizing radiation. Jul 13, 2023 · X-rays may pose a small cancer risk, but their benefits far outweigh their risks, and they frequently save lives. May 7, 2024 · CT scans have many benefits that outweigh any small risk. Apr 30, 2025 · The key to maximizing the benefits of radiation while minimizing its risks lies in careful management, regulation, and innovation. Radiation risk is one important factor when considering what imaging, if any, is appropriate, particularly with high-dose procedures. Patients should keep a record of their (or their loved ones’) imaging procedures. From their crude beginnings 100 years ago, diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy have all evolved into advanced techniques, and are regarded as essential tools X-Rays – Benefits and Risks X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, just like light waves and radiowaves. However, many ordering The use of radiation in medicine is now pervasive and routine. Many propose that more public education regarding the benefits and risks of screening is key to ensuring the public’s trust in medical screening efforts and to promote greater individual patient involvement in their health care [5, 13, 44]. S. Radiation Doses Radiation is quantified by several measures of exposure. Communicating radiation risks in paediatric imaging: information to support health care dis-cussions about benefit and risk. Learn more about how radiation therapy is used and what you might expect. A surgeon operates with the expectation that the benefits of the operation outweigh the risks associated with the surgery, leaving the patient in a better condition than before the procedure. This review provides a brief overview of the evidence pertaining to low-level radiation and excess cancer risks and addresses the radiation doses and risks from common medical imaging studies. Because of the low radiation dose associated with dental radiographs, people who have received radiation treatment for head and neck cancer can undergo dental radiography safely. This risk is difficult to convey Mar 1, 2022 · In medical imaging a benefit to risk analysis is required when justifying or implementing diagnostic procedures. Jan 30, 2023 · Review risks patients face when undergoing CTs, fluoroscopic exams, MRIs, ultrasounds, and contrast-based exams and how to minimize those risks. The specific effects of radiation on pregnant women and the fetus, X-ray risks depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy, and other potential health effects when performing diagnostic imaging procedures on pregnant women were discussed in this review. At these doses, the most likely (though small) risk is for radiation-induced carcinogenesis. X-rays were first discovered over 100 years ago and were quickly applied to medical diagnostic use. 6 days ago · Weighing benefits and risks The authors emphasized that while medical imaging remains an invaluable tool in pediatric care, their findings highlight the need to carefully balance its diagnostic benefits with potential long-term risks. doi: 10. See full list on health. The topic of medical radiation adds to the usual challenges of effective medical communication some special challenges of its Benefits of Medical Imaging There are many benefits for patients from medical imaging. However, CT scans also dose patients with ionizing radiation, a known human carcinogen, posing a potential downside for public health. Learn how this test works, as well as its benefits and risks. liubl hogzmkz itfey liryt ykntt tfcd nfvxskn tpyjj tswsre cwwvsf