HYDERABAD:
Expressing concern over excessive exposure of radiation to patients who frequently undergo Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans, healthcare experts in Hyderabad have advised caution and recommended that there should be a detailed study about the dosage of radiation given to patients in India and its impact on them over a period of time.
According to Dr. B. Srihari, radiologists at Osmania General Hospital in Hyderabad, many patients are unaware of the side-effects of radiation and there is a need to create awareness among the people about the adverse effects of frequently undergoing CT and MRI scans. “Many doctors at times prescribe CT and MRI scanning for even small issues because of which there is a rise in the number of cases undergoing CT and MRI scanning of late in hospitals. This is really a big concern as people are not aware of the adverse effect of the radiation which may lead to cancer if frequently exposed to radiation,” says Dr. Srihari.
The healthcare experts have also cited studies that if the same pace of exposure to radiation by patients is continued in future it may lead to at least 2 per cent of future cancers just because of radiation exposure to CT scans in India.
However, the experts have said that there will be a negligent effect of radiation on patients if they undergo CT or MRI scans once in 5 or 10 years. “Radiation related damage to human body is of two types, one is predictable and the other is unpredictable. If could result in cancer or have genetic effect on children. The estimated lifetime risk from exposure to radiation of 10 mSv is approximately one cancer per 1,000 patients. Therefore before going for CT and MRI scans the patients must take precautions and should be aware of its adverse effects and accordingly take decisions,” said Dr. Srihari.
Srihari also advised the physicians that before prescribing CT or MRI scans for the patients they should consider the patient’s safety and accordingly the diagnostic tests.
A CT scan is generated by passing radiation through a specific part of the body to generate a 3- dimentional image. If a person undergoes such scan continuously, then it will have an adverse impact on the human body. “Usually as per the radiation guidelines we follow, the principle of ‘as low as reasonably achievable’ radiation strategy is followed while conducting CT scans and a very low radiation is given,” said Dr. Sekhar of Ravi Children’s Hospital.
Particularly in children of young age, the CT and MRI scans are completely avoided unless and until doctors consider the potential benefits against overall risks is higher. Even in adults also doctors should suggest CT scan only when there is clinical indication and if only benefits overweight the risks.
