thanks...
Kabin
Konteyner

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Also, these calculations rely on the LNT mode (linear no-threshold model), which basically states that there is no safe dose of radiation, and that the risks increase linearly with dose. However, the LNT model is largely based on assumptions, and some experts think it might not apply to low doses of radiation such as those used during CT scans. Although it is true that CT scans deliver a much larger dose than simple x-ray radiography, the dose is still very low by radiation standards. Some experts believe doses this low are too small to be harmful.

At one end of the spectrum, there is even a hypothesis called the radiation hormesis model. This model actually argues that low does of radiation are actually beneficial and reduce cancer risks. Some studies have supported this. The general idea, is that low doses of radiation sort of "wake up" the immune system and actually stimulate cancer fighting mechanisms in the body, such as DNA repair mechanisms, and apoptosis (programmed cell death of damaged cells that cannot be repaired). Although this model is rejected by most experts for now, there are several studies that support it, and it will be looked into further.

But really, the bottom line for now is probably that fully body CT scanning as a routine procedure does not provide any real benefits. But for diagnostic procedures because of symptoms, the benefits outweigh any risk that may be present.

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It's important to keep in mind that many experts question the validity of the study that suggested the risk is that high. It may be somewhat alarmist. There are several flaws in the study, such as the fact that it did not take into account the fact that the atomic bomb survivors received total body doses of radiation, where as CT scanning is generally targeted to the part of the body being imaged. Also, the study didn't take into account the obvious other conditions in Japan that may have helped contribute to development of cancer, such as chemical pollutants in water, consumption of radioactive food after the initial gamma burst because of fallout, etc.

Full body CT scanning as a preventive measure is not something I would do, because it has never been shown to have any real medical benefit, and it may incur a small additional risk of radiation induced cancer.

But for medical diagnostic procedures needed to confirm or rule out certain conditions, it's an invaluable tool. and the benefits almost certainly outweigh any risk that might exist.

Also, it's important to keep in mind the relative risk. 1 in 2000 people might get radiation induced cancer from a single CT scan. That's a risk rate of 0.05%. Your background risk of getting cancer at some point in your life is already over 35%. So it's a very small increase in risk. If the LNT model (Linear no-threshold model) is correct, then even 4 scans only raises your risk by about 0.2%. [continued in next comment. Out of s

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dfsdfs

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Hi, This is concerning! Yesterday, we had an emergency in the family - my mother-in-law fainted while attending a temple nearby - her eyes were still operating as they should but there was no other reaction whether in actions or words. She is diabetic so we gave her some sugary fluids. We eventually got the hospital in 30 mins, by which time she had started reacting somewhat. Later on, a CT scan was conducted & Diabetes was ruled out - lumps/swelling in the brain (2 areas) were identified as the cause. This is where the concern begins...
It has now been 36hrs since the first CT scan & in this time, there has already been -
1 x MRI &
2 x CT Scans conducted - one which identified the original problem & the other one is explained to us as a colored version which gives more info..presumably. Ging throguh wikipedia, I think the second one's the 3D rendering technique one.

We are getting limited info from the doctors. They are still telling us that they are trying to identify the cause of these lumps or legions. 3 scans later, they haven't made a progress & they are now looking to conduct another MRI.
So, 4 scans in 48hrs. What I;d like to ask the group is whether it even makes sense to do multiple of each? & secondly, is it even safe?
Thanks guys, Nitin Malhotra

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I'm getting a CT next week for my kidney and liver. I already know I have stones and a couple of cysts. So it can be useful if not abused.

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I received one and they found a large cyst on my ovary, kidney stones and my appendix was inflamed. I had surgery for the appendix.

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Interesting! I've considered doing this "just to make sure all is truly well", but hesitated for both cost and radiation concerns. Now I know I should pass. Thanks!

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