5 Potential Health Risks with X-Ray Technology
X-rays are very common and very helpful, but they have a downside too. There are many health risks that can be caused by too much exposure to X-ray technology and here we look at a few.
1. Development of cancer later on: Though there is not a hard and steady link to cancer from X-rays, there is enough of a question that it makes for a concern. There is reason to believe that if a person receives too many X-rays throughout their life, that this exposes them to the potential development of cancer. There are various types of cancer that can develop if there is excessive use of X-rays and therefore it’s best to be cautious. Though family history and the type of exposure certainly plays into it, it’s best to be judicious about the type and frequency of X-rays that you receive.
2. Genetic Damage: This is a real link to cancer and therefore very concerning. It has been found that those who receive too many X-rays throughout their lives have a great likelihood of genetic mutation or genetic issues. The cells that absorb the X-rays can change or become misshaped or formed incorrectly. This is what is believed to cause cancer but it can cause other genetic issues as well. If somebody works within X-ray technology or happens to receive a lot of X-rays then they need to be in tune to the potential damage of genes within the body.
3. Damage to an Unborn Child: This is one of the most well known risks with X-ray technology and perhaps the scariest. There is a lot known but not necessarily agreed upon within the medical community. Exposure of a fetus to X-ray technology can result in miscarriage or birth defects. This is believed to happen because of the damage to the cells that can be caused from the X-ray technology. Pregnant women are strongly advised against receiving X-rays at all, or if they are absolutely necessary then it should be done on a very limited basis to protect the child.
4. Fertility Issues: Another related issue comes about if a woman or man in their childbearing years have exposure within their reproductive parts to X-ray technology. It is believed that this technology can cause damage to the sperm and egg and can cause that individual to have problems conceiving a child when they are ready. It is advised during an X-ray that the appropriate parts be covered by an apron to avoid exposure and potential damage.
5. Too Much Radiation Absorbed: There are many other potential risks being studied but many doctors believe that the benefits far outweigh the risks when it comes to radiation. The truth though is that when the body absorbs too much radiation that comes about from X-ray technology that it can cause lifelong problems and symptoms. These may affect everyone differently but the body isn’t meant to absorb that much radiation and therefore this can lead to a whole slew of health problems. Always better to be safe than sorry!
Though X-rays are often necessary, we do want to be careful about how often we are having them. Though they can produce some good and positive things, they can also lead to health problems down the road.
Mary Frederick enjoys blogging about different jobs and career paths available for an x-ray tech.