How Many CT Scans Are Safe for Kids?

A new study finds while one CT scan appears safe, having repeated scans may increase the risk of certain cancers in children under the age of 18.

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The use of CT scans in children is increasing, and while the images can provide life-saving information, radiation exposure remains a concern. Researchers wanted to know how big a concern this was, so they launched a study to explore CT scans and cancer risk in children under the age of 18. The study included more than 7,800 children diagnosed with brain tumors, leukemia, or lymphoma, and 78,000 control subjects.

The researchers compared cancer rates in participants who had CT scans versus those who did not. The results showed that receiving one CT scan was not associated with an increased risk of any of the cancers. However, having two to three CT scans was linked to a higher risk of brain tumors, and undergoing four or more CT scans more than doubled the risk of brain tumors, leukemia, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma compared to no exposure.

One study author says these findings reinforce the importance of radiation protection strategies and recommends that "Unnecessary CT scans should be avoided. He also emphasizes that special attention should be paid to patients who require repeated CT scans." Furthermore, he states that parents and pediatric patients should be informed of the risks and benefits of CT scans.

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