Airport scanners…Japan Scare…How much radiation is too much?
Radiation exposure is a hot topic in the news, one that Dr. Gene Phillips is keeping a close eye on. A board certified radiologist, he serves as a Radiation Safety Officer for Imaging Specialists. He states, “Radiation exposure is all over the news right now. The effects of radiation can be serious, so it is a good opportunity to educate everyone on this subject.”
Airport Scanners-The TSA disputes reports that levels are 10 times higher than they should be in airport scanners. What does this mean to the customers, especially frequent fliers? States Dr. Phillips, “The full body scanners are supposed to emit a small amount of radiation. If that amount is being disputed, it is worth further testing. For pilots, crew and frequent fliers this is worth paying close attention to.”
Japan-180,000 people have been asked to leave a 19 mile area on the east cost of Japan because of possible radiation exposure. What are the signs of radiation sickness? States Dr. Phillips, “The first signs they will look for are nausea and vomiting. It can get much worse from there, however.”
What about local medical tests? Imaging Specialists local group of radiologists has joined the national effort to reduce the amount of radiation patients receive during imaging tests. The Image Gently campaign is an effort to increase awareness and decrease the testing related radiation exposure. Says Dr. Phillips, “Nationally there is a push for ‘gentle imaging’, and we are in full support of this campaign. We want to ensure the safety and comfort of patients during imaging exams at the facility. ” Imaging Specialists is now utilizing breast and ocular shields during CT scans, which are placed over the chest and eye area to decrease radiation during the scan. Patients should request that chest shields be used during CT scans, as it reduces a significant amount of radiation exposure. Additionally, Imaging Specialists also offers an open 3T-MRI, one of the first in the country. MRI does not use ionizing radiation, diminishing the risk.
