Sustainability of Medical Imaging

The role of radiation exposure, even at minimal amounts, is still controversial among many physicians. Nonetheless the amount of medical radiation humans receive has been increase exponentially in recent years. According to “Sustainability of Medical Imaging,” medical radiation increased from roughly one fifth of natural radiation in 1987 to nearly 100% by 1997. Though the amount of radiation, on average, from medical procedures remains beneath the limit of roughly 50 mSv/year, it is often difficult to predict what occurs with such low levels of exposure.

Varying theories exist for such minimal levels ranging from the hormesis theory, which asserts that a little radiation is actually beneficial, to contradicting theories that accuse modern radiation dosage limits of being severe underestimates of toxic levels. Adding to this controversy is the fact that many modern physicians are under more pressure to perform more medical imaging in order to ensure that they have exhausted every possible option and thus prevent any legal action. Likewise modern patients are more informed and demand more examinations in order to feel they are getting the best treatment possible. Taking all these factors into account will be vital to the future of medical imaging. Moving forward we must implement rigorous laws to defend high levels of safety for individuals.