CT scans could be a contributor to cancer, study finds

(Gray News) – CT scans could be an “important cause of cancer” in the United States, according to a new study.

According to the study by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, CT scans could account for 5% of cancer cases in the U.S., more than tripling previous estimates.

Since 2007, the number of CT scans performed in the U.S. has increased by 30%. The research also indicates that CT scans are being overused for instances of upper respiratory infections and common headaches.

Scientists said the findings should give pause to medical professionals about whether the benefits of CT scans outweigh the risks.

According to the study, the largest number of cancers in adults was due to CT scans of the pelvis and abdomen. Children face a higher risk of cancer following CT scans of the head.

“Given the large volume of CT use in the United States, many cancers could occur in the future if current practices don’t change,” said UCSF radiologist Rebecca Smith-Bindman. “Our estimates put CT on par with other significant risk factors, such as alcohol consumption and excess body weight. Reducing the number of scans and reducing doses per scan would save lives.”

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