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A study in JAMA Internal Medicine estimates that the increasing number of CT scans in the US (93 million in 2023) may lead to 103,000 future cancer cases due to low-dose ionizing radiation. While the risk for an individual is minimal, the cumulative effect from widespread use is concerning. Researchers used data from atomic bomb survivors and nuclear accidents to model the risk, acknowledging a lack of conclusive evidence linking low-dose radiation to cancer. Experts emphasize the importance of medically necessary scans while advocating for minimizing unnecessary procedures.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.