Low-dose radiation use in diagnostic imaging and cancer therapy settings

Abstract

Current methods of radiation safety are characterized by age-old hypotheses that claim low doses of radiation, such as those received in diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment, increase the risk of cancer. The linear no-threshold hypothesis dates back to 70 years and has not been scientifically validated, yet it remains the driving force behind current regulatory policies concerning radiation exposure. The linear no-threshold hypothesis has birthed the "as low as reasonably achievable" concept that is commonly practiced in medical professions to limit radiation exposure. Both perpetuate an unscientific radiophobia stigma, while undermining the more likely result of stimulation of protective responses from the low doses of radiation. This article serves to reemphasize the fallacies of carcinogenic risk and to highlight the possible benefits of low-dose exposure in hopes of invalidating the concerns of physicians, the diagnostic imaging technologists, and patient populations that are subject to diagnostic imaging and cancer radiation therapies.

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