Diagnostic radiation exposure and cancer risk

Diagnostic and therapeutic radiological inves- tigations are an essential part of the workup of patients with a number of clinical prob- lems across a variety of medical specialties. Although new non-x ray technologies have started to replace traditional investigations these have not lead to a reduction in radiation exposure. In contrast, based on global statistics and projections, radiation exposure of patients is increasing, in parti- cular as a result of new indications and use in cross sectional imaging. 1 In addition, multiple investigations of patients with chronic dis- ease can lead to substantial individual radia- tion exposure as surgical practice increasingly relies on the use of cross sectional imaging to aid diagnosis and treatment. 2