Millions of CT Scans Linked to Increased Cancer Risk

A new study from UC San Francisco reveals that CT scans may be responsible for up to 5% of all annual cancers. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, estimates that the 93 million CT scans performed in 2023 in the US could lead to nearly 103,000 cancer cases—three to four times higher than previous estimates. Infants and children face the greatest risk, but adults are also vulnerable due to higher scan frequency. Researchers urge a reduction in both the number and dosage of CT scans to mitigate this significant health concern. While CT scans are invaluable for diagnosis, the ionizing radiation they emit is a known carcinogen. The study highlights the need for better informed consent and reduced overuse of CT scans.