Dr Oz: Dangerous Radiation: Are We Overusing CT Scans?

Dr Oz did a segment called “Oz Alert: Dangerous Radiation: Are You At Risk?” where he discussed a topic that all of us are wondering about – how much is too much radiation whether it comes from Airport Scanners, Dental X-Rays or CT Scans.  Doctor Oz asked the questions – are we overusing CT Scans (pronounced Cat Scans)?

Dr Oz: Are We Overusing CT Scans?

Dr Oz said that CT Scans are important for helping to detect tumors and heart blockages.  But now CT Scans are used for all sorts of things from stomach pain to headaches.  In 1980, 3 million CT Scans were ordered and by 2008 that number was up to 90 million CT Scans ordered.  Two new studies show that we are using more radiation than previously thought, and this could be leading to an increased risk for getting cancer.

Dr Oz said that he orders CT Scans all the time, but he is aware that it comes at a price.  Just one CT Scan can expose you to  3 times the amount of radiation that you would get in a year of just living outside.  Is radiation worth the risk?

Dr Oz: Dangerous Radiation Recommendations

Dr Oz had a radiologist named Mary Mahoney on his show to give three sets of recommendations regarding Dangerous Radiation.

1.  Doctors must get educated and order the best test at the right time, because radiation may not always be needed.

2.  The radiologists and vendors have to work together to learn about when lower doses will be just as effective.

3.  Patients must be educated and understand how to weigh the risks of radiation against the benefits.  There are many misconceptions on the topic of radiology.  Mary Mahoney said that you can learn more at RadiologyInfo.org.