## Potential Cancer Risk Linked to Routine CT Scans
CT (computed tomography) scans, widely utilized for internal body imaging and diagnosis of serious medical conditions, may carry an unexpected risk: contributing to cancer development. A recent study from the University of California – San Francisco suggests that these scans could be responsible for approximately 5% of all annual cancer diagnoses.
According to researchers, the potential impact of CT scans is comparable to other known risk factors like alcohol consumption and being overweight. The findings are based on an updated analysis of 2023 data regarding scan volumes, types, and radiation doses. Researchers utilized a robust model to estimate cancer risks, confirming their conclusions through sensitivity analyses.
Key Findings:
* The study estimates that around 103,000 future cancers in the U.S. could be attributed to CT scans performed in 2023.
* Individuals aged 50-69 are projected to experience the highest number of these cases.
* Babies and young children face a significantly higher risk—up to ten times greater—compared to other age groups.
* Common cancer types linked to CT radiation include lung, colon, leukemia, and breast cancers.
“While some uncertainty remains, the core conclusion is clear: a small but significant percentage of cancers are associated with CT scans, and this number can be reduced,” stated Dr. Rebecca Smith-Bindman, lead author of the study and UCSF radiologist.
The research team emphasizes that while CT scans often represent the most effective diagnostic tool, their use has been steadily increasing, including instances where imaging lacks a clear medical justification – what’s termed “low-value scanning.”
To mitigate potential harm, researchers recommend several strategies:
- Avoiding unnecessary CT scans.
- Lowering radiation doses during each scan whenever possible.
- Engaging in informed discussions with healthcare providers to evaluate the necessity of a CT scan and explore alternative imaging options like ultrasound or MRI.
“If a CT scan is medically indicated, its benefits substantially outweigh the risks,” Dr. Smith-Bindman explained. “However, if it isn’t clearly needed, avoiding the scan altogether is the best course of action.”
Dr. Nicole Saphier, a board-certified radiologist and medical contributor, while not directly involved in the study, echoed these concerns. “I have long advocated for judicious use of medical imaging—often citing that less can be more when it comes to good patient care,” she stated.
Saphier added that this study may actually underestimate the total cancer burden linked to medical imaging due to factors like long latency periods and the difficulty in isolating radiation’s role among other potential contributors. She also noted the exclusion of radiation from image-guided procedures and x-rays in the study.
Despite these risks, Saphier acknowledged the life-saving benefits of CT scans and other medical imaging techniques, which are often “fast and cheap.” The key, she emphasized, is finding a balance between benefit and risk.
“Informed decision-making—by both clinicians and patients—is essential,” Saphier concluded. “We must continue to refine our protocols, limit unnecessary imaging, and ensure we’re using the lowest possible doses without compromising diagnostic quality. This isn’t about avoiding CT scans altogether; it’s a call for their wise and measured use.”
