How much damage does a CT do to the human body? How many times does it cause cancer?

Mondo Health Updated on 2024-02-18

Speaking ofCT scan,Everyone is familiar with it, and it will be used during some disease examinations or health check-ups.

About what it producesWhether radiation is harmful to the bodyhas been the focus of public concern, and a recent study suggested:Every time I do a CT scan, I get lymphRisk of neoplastic and cellular tumorsThis is an increase of 43%[1].

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Is that really the case? Can't I have a CT scan in the future? Today, I will answer everyone's questions one by one.

Every additional CT will be

Is it true that there is an increased risk of cancer?

Data from more than 940,000 participants (< 22 years old) collected:Accumulation of CT dosesThere is a positive association with the risk of all haematological malignanciesEven ifIn case of low doses(10-15mgy),It can also cause cancerrisks, especially in children and adolescents [1].

In other words, CT radiation will "add up", and CT will be done twice a year (2-15mmgy for a single radiation).It may exceed the cumulative carcinogenic dose of CT and increase the risk of cancer.

Seeing this conclusion, I believe that many people are worried:Can we still do CT with confidence in the future?

Actually, don't be too anxious for the general populationIt should be conducted by a doctor in person, and the examination should not be arranged on your ownAvoid headaches and brain fever, and "take a CT" security behavior.

And for special patients who need to be examined more than once a yearThe damage caused by disease is much higher than the harm caused by radiationYour doctor will also make a plan on a case-by-case basis(e.g., regularly scheduled biochemical tests: complete blood count and liver function tests) to avoid the potential effects of radiation.

Then there is a little friend to ask:I'm just afraid of CT radiation, are there any other tests that can be replaced?

I don't do CT,

There are also 2 types of tests that can be considered

1. X-ray

For example, when examining lung lesions, we can choose X-ray instead of CTIt can be used for the initial diagnosis of lung disease(tuberculosis, emphysema, bronchiectasis, etc.), and the cost of the test is also lower

However, X-ray imaging is easily affected by conditions, and if you wear too much clothing and the soft tissues at the examination site are thick (due to inflammation causing edema, hyperplasia, etc.), you will not be able to see the details clearly.

2. Nuclear magnetic resonance

MRI is more sensitive to diseased tissue than CT, yesTests of soft tissues such as joints, muscles, and central nervous systems.

However, if there is a metal substance in the body, an MRI cannot be performed; In addition, MRIs are too loud when running, and some people feel nervous and anxious, which may affect the results of the test, especially in younger children.

Although CT can be replaced by X-ray or MRI in some cases, the following:CT is recommended to be the first choice for 4 groups of people

Have a history of long-term smoking, a family history of lung cancer, and pulmonary nodulesSince the chest is blocked by the heart, ribs, sternum, etc.,CT scan can clearly identify lesions;

Patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases:I can do moreAccurately determine the condition of cerebral hemorrhage or ischemia;

Oncology patients: Be able to understand more clearlyThe size and structure of the tumorand to judge the tumor stage;

Patients with head injury:After trauma to the skullIf the lesion cannot be detected externally, CT is the best way to diagnose it.

For some friends who must do CT examination, if they are still very worried about the impact of radiationNext, Xiaowei will teach everyone 2 tricks to "defuse" radiation damage.

2 preparations

Reduces radiation damage from CT scans

Before the examination: Do a good job of radiation protection of the body

Your health care provider can be asked if you have oneAdditional protective equipment such as protective clothing,Cover special areas such as the thyroid gland to avoid radiation.

After the test: drink plenty of water and eat foods that accelerate radiation metabolism

During contrast-enhanced CT, a contrast agent is injected into a vein to speed up the excretion of the contrast agent after the examinationYou can drink 1200-1500ml of water in small amounts and many times.

Also, you can eat some after the check-upFruits and vegetables that are resistant to radiation, such as: carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, apples, etcto reduce the effects of radiation.

In general, for:The general populationCT is not done unless necessaryX-rays or MRI alternatives can be done according to your doctor's recommendations.

If a CT scan is necessary,According to the method taught by Xiaowei, prepare before and after the examinationto reduce radiation damage.

That's all for today, if you find this article helpful, don't forgetLike it and share it with your family and friends

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