Why High-Dose CT Scans Could Pose Health Risks

Recent research finds rising radiation doses from CT scans could be contributing to increased cancer risk, but there are steps patients can take.
Why High-Dose CT Scans Could Pose Health Risks
CT scans have become a key diagnostic tool but research suggests they are being overused at overly high radiation levels. PHILIPPE MERLE/AFP via Getty Images
|Updated:
0:00

Whether it’s a simple headache that won’t go away or a suspected case of cancer, computed tomography (CT) is a go-to diagnostic tool that allows doctors to see inside the body without the need for surgery.

While most consider CT scans a modern medical miracle, recent research suggests there’s a potential dark side to this technology, as the equipment emits ionizing radiation that may damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.

Kimberly Drake
Kimberly Drake
Author
Kimberly Drake is a health journalist and newspaper columnist with a decade of experience covering health and wellness topics. Her work has appeared in Healthline, Medical News Today, and other online and print publications. She also serves as governance board vice president for two charter schools for autistic students.