From the Guidelines
Yes, there is evidence supporting higher rates of breast cancer and cutaneous melanoma among populations occupationally exposed to X-rays, such as radiologic technologists. According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2020 1, radiation exposure is associated with an increased likelihood of numerous illnesses and diseases, including cancer induction, with recent reports of a cluster of predominantly left-sided brain cancers in interventionists, as well as a signal for increased breast and skin cancers.
Key Findings
- The association between radiation exposure and cancer induction is a growing concern, with evidence suggesting a dose-dependent relationship for breast cancer and an elevated risk for melanoma, especially among workers with prolonged exposure histories.
- The biological mechanism involves ionizing radiation causing DNA damage and mutations that can lead to cancer development.
- Modern radiation protection practices, including lead aprons, thyroid shields, dosimetry monitoring, and reduced fluoroscopy times, have significantly decreased occupational exposure.
- Healthcare workers should strictly adhere to ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), maintain appropriate distance from radiation sources when possible, and undergo regular health monitoring.
Recommendations for Radiologic Technologists
- Strictly adhere to ALARA principles to minimize radiation exposure.
- Use protective garments, such as lead aprons and thyroid shields, when working with X-ray equipment.
- Maintain appropriate distance from radiation sources when possible.
- Undergo regular health monitoring, including screening for breast cancer and skin cancer.
- Be aware of the latency period between radiation exposure and cancer development, which can be decades, making long-term surveillance important.
Limitations and Future Directions
- The BEIR VII models may overstate the stochastic risk to occupationally exposed workers, as most human stochastic risk data are derived from comparatively large exposures delivered over relatively short time periods 1.
- Further research is needed to assess the cancer risk from long-term daily exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation.
From the Research
Ionizing Radiation and Cancer Risk
- Ionizing radiation from X-rays is a known risk factor for various types of cancer, including breast cancer and cutaneous melanoma 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation, particularly during childhood, may increase the risk of breast cancer 2.
- The risk of breast cancer is elevated among women who have had multiple chest X-rays or mammograms, especially if they were first exposed to these medical radiation procedures during childhood 2.
- There is also evidence to suggest that ionizing radiation may be a cause of melanoma, with people exposed to ionizing radiation potentially being at increased risk of developing melanoma 3.
Radiation Exposure in Radiologic Technologists
- Radiologic technologists are exposed to significant quantities of ionizing radiation, which may increase their risk of developing cancer, including breast cancer and cutaneous melanoma 4, 3.
- The risks associated with ionizing radiation exposure are dose-dependent, with higher doses increasing the risk of cancer 5, 6.
- It is essential for radiologic technologists to follow safety protocols and minimize their exposure to ionizing radiation to reduce their risk of developing cancer 4, 6.
Key Findings
- Low-dose ionizing radiation exposure has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly if exposure occurs during childhood 2.
- Ionizing radiation may be a cause of melanoma, with people exposed to ionizing radiation potentially being at increased risk of developing melanoma 3.
- Radiologic technologists are at risk of developing cancer due to their exposure to ionizing radiation, and it is crucial for them to follow safety protocols to minimize their exposure 4, 6.