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Radiation exposure varies by age, sex
Posted: May 19, 2010 7:23 AM by Bea Karnes, News First 5
Updated: May 19, 2010 7:23 AM
New research suggests radiation from CT scans pose a larger health threat for younger patients and women.
A study from the Medical University of South Carolina aimed to estimate the risk of radiation according to a patient's age and sex. Using 51 patients undergoing routine abdominal and pelvic CT scans, they found the radiation risk to a 31 year old was about double to that of a 74 year old. The risk to females was slightly higher than males.
The researchers conclude that doctors should not routinely order tests, but use scans only to get a diagnosis.
The study was presented at the ARRS 2010 Annual Meeting in San Diego.
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