Xrays and scans and the risks that come with them.

Hello, 4 years ago I was diagnosed with TN breast cancer, Grade 3 stage 1. Luckily treatment worked..chemo, lumpectomy and radiotherapy. During all that I found out I was brca2 positive so then went on to have risk reducing surgery, ovaries and fallopian tubes removed and then double mastectomy. My question is regarding the risks of reoccurring or new cancers due to xrays and scans. Over the last year I have had an xray on my foot for suspected broken toe, 3 head ct scans 1 without and 2 with contrast because of the awful headaches I'd been getting (luckily all came back clear) now my GP wants me to have a chest xray as I have been suffering with a chest infection for the last 3 and half weeks. I have refused the xray once and have postponed it until finishing my third course of antibiotics, hoping that it will clear up and there will be no need for the xray. I'm just so worried that all these scans and xrays iv been having is going to significantly increase my risk of reoccurrence or getting a new cancer in the future. Can you please tell me about the risks when exposed to this much radiation, I understand the benefits of having them but it's the risks I'm more concerned about. I'm trying so hard to make lifestyle changes, dietary changes and anything else that may reduce my risk of getting cancer again in the future I just don't want all my hard work undone by unnecessary exposure to radiation. So scared of getting cancer again! 

  • Hello Chezann and thanks for your post

    Radiation from medical imaging (such as x-rays and CT scans) can slightly increase the risk of developing cancer. About 6 in 1,000 cancers in the UK are linked to this type of radiation. But medical x-rays and scans are very important for diagnosing illnesses. 

    The benefit of correctly diagnosing and treating health conditions outweighs any potential harm from the scan.  The health risks from medical scans are low. Generally, the amount of radiation from medical imaging is less than what we are exposed to naturally in our environment over time. Different types of medical imaging give out different amounts of radiation. For example, x-rays usually use less radiation than CT scans.  

    The UK government sets guidelines on the amount of radiation used in medical scans and x-rays so they are as safe as possible. You can read more about this by clicking here.

    You may find it helpful to discuss your own risk of recurrence with your specialist team.

    I hope this is of use. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene