Can radiation from medical scans increase the risk for breast cancer? What you should know

Ionising radiation, employed in many medical imaging procedures, is capable of altering the DNA within cells. This type of radiation has been associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, as the breast tissue is highly sensitive to radiation. According to studies, high doses of radiation, as used in radiation therapy, are linked to an elevated risk of developing cancer. However, the risk associated with low-dose radiation used in medical imaging procedures, such as mammography, is relatively small.

The link between ionising radiation and breast cancer has been well-established. Exposure to high levels of ionising radiation—such as that used in radiation therapy for other cancers—has been shown to increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. In the case of medical imaging, while the radiation dose is considerably lower, the cumulative exposure over time can slightly increase the risk of developing breast cancer, especially when imaging is performed frequently.

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The amount of radiation used in various imaging procedures is measured in millisieverts (mSv). Below is an overview of radiation exposure from commonly used diagnostic imaging tests for breast cancer:

• Mammogram: ~0.4 mSv
• Chest X-ray: ~0.1 mSv
• CT scan of the abdomen/pelvis: ~10 mSv
• CT scan of the chest: ~7 mSv

While the dose from a mammogram is low, it is important to note that mammography remains a crucial tool for early breast cancer detection. The small risk of radiation exposure is generally outweighed by the benefits of detecting breast cancer at an early stage, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

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The risks associated with radiation exposure in medical imaging are always weighed against the benefits of accurate diagnosis and early detection. For breast cancer, the early detection of tumours through procedures like mammograms has been shown to increase survival rates and reduce the need for aggressive treatments. Despite the small risk of radiation from mammograms, the benefits of detecting breast cancer early and treating it promptly are well-documented.

• Mammography is particularly beneficial for detecting small, early-stage tumours that may not be palpable or visible on a physical examination.
• CT scans, although not typically used for breast cancer screening, are often employed to assess metastasis or evaluate complications in cancer patients. Due to their higher radiation doses, their use is carefully considered and limited to situations where the diagnostic benefit is substantial.

Recommendations for Patients

1. Inquire about the necessity of the test: Understanding the reasons for an imaging procedure and whether it is essential for diagnosis or treatment is recommended.

2. Explore alternative options: Non-radiation alternatives, such as ultrasound or MRI, should be discussed, especially for younger women or those with dense breast tissue.

3. Track imaging history: Keeping a record of previous imaging tests can help avoid unnecessary repeats, reducing cumulative radiation exposure.

4. Choose accredited imaging centres: Ensuring that imaging facilities follow strict radiation safety standards and use the lowest possible dose for each procedure is important.

The use of ionising radiation in medical imaging, particularly mammography, plays an indispensable role in the early detection and management of breast cancer. While radiation exposure carries some risk, the benefits of timely breast cancer detection far outweigh the potential harms. By working closely with healthcare providers, patients can make informed decisions that balance the risks and benefits of imaging procedures, ensuring that the most appropriate and safe options are selected for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

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