FDA launches initiative to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure from medical imaging

February 10, 2010

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Tuesday a new initiative to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure from medical imaging. Specifically the FDA has targeted computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine studies, and fluoroscopy as types of imaging that deliver much higher amounts of radiation to patients than standard x-rays, dental x-rays, and mammography.

Although medical imaging has significantly improved the chance for an early diagnosis and treatment, it has also increased the risks for patients to develop cancer due to the type radiation emitted: ionizing radiation. This type of radiation can accumulate over a patient's lifetime.

The FDA recommends that steps be taken to reduce unnecessary exposure to radiation by following these three steps:

1. Promote safe use of medical imaging devices
2. Support informed clinical decision making
3. Increase patient awareness

To read more about this initiative, click here.