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Reducing patient exposure to ionizing radiation--is it really necessary?
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal
|November 1, 1976
Summary
Medical radiation exposure in the US is examined. While no current evidence shows harm from low-level radiation, prudent caution is advised. The benefits of medical radiology outweigh potential risks, suggesting no public crisis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Public Health
- Radiology
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding the level of medical radiation exposure for the general population in the United States.
- The potential for excessive radiation doses necessitates an examination of current practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the thesis that medical radiation exposures are excessive and require reduction.
- To assess the risks versus benefits of diagnostic and therapeutic radiology.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature and existing data on medical radiation doses.
- Analysis of the evidence for deleterious effects from low-level radiation exposure.
Main Results:
- Currently, no definitive evidence indicates harmful effects from radiation doses of a few rads or less.
- Medical radiology provides significant benefits that are well-established.
Conclusions:
- While acknowledging the theoretical possibility of harm, the benefits of medical radiology are substantial.
- A balanced perspective suggests that the public should not be alarmed about a crisis due to medical radiation exposure.