May 18, 2004

Use of radiation-based diagnostic methods continues on a rapid rise, even though experts on carcinogenesis warn that a small but non-trivial share of cancer is attributable to radiation from the use of medical X-rays, much of it from CT scans. MedPundit Sydney Smith (Jan. 29) says she sees a high volume of CT scans of the chest and abdomen. "I have a couple of patients who are on their third or fourth follow-up CT for uncertain findings that, truth be told, are done more for our own protection than theirs. Yet another way our litigation culture is influencing healthcare -- and health."

[cross-posted from Overlawyered, where it ran Feb. 1, 2004]