CT Use May Add to Future Cancer Burden

Researchers projected approximately 103,000 future cancers associated with computed tomography examinations performed in the US in 2023.

1

CT imaging in the US in 2023 is projected to cause approximately 103,000 future radiation-induced cancers.
2

The estimate of future cancers is three to four times higher than a 2009 projection due to increased CT utilization and improved dose reconstruction.
3

Adult patients account for the majority of projected cancers, with 93,000 cases compared to 9,700 in pediatric patients.
4

Lung cancer is the most common projected cancer type, followed by colon cancer, leukemia, bladder cancer, and stomach cancer.
5

The study emphasizes the need for justification of CT use and optimization of radiation dose to mitigate potential harm.

1