CT scans in childhood
have been shown to triple the risk of developing brain cancer or leukaemia, a new study suggests.
The work from scientists at Newcastle University analysed the medical records
of patients aged under the age of 21 who had CT scans at a range of British
hospitals during 1985 and 2002.
Dr Mark Pearce, an epidemiologist who led the study, said that despite the
increased risks, the use of CT scans outweighed the risks in many scenarios.
"Doses have come down dramatically over time - but we need to do more to
reduce them. This should be a priority for the clinical community and
manufacturers," he added.
UK regulations state that CT scans should only be done when there is clinical
justification - and the researchers believe their report supports this.
The technology works by rotating an X-ray tube around person's body to produce
detailed images of internal organs and other parts of the body.
© Adfero Ltd
Cancer treatment news : 11 June 2012
