FDA Cracking Down On X-ray Exposure For Kids 138
ericjones12398 writes "The Food and Drug Administration is proposing that manufacturers of X-ray machines and CT scanners do more to protect children from radiation exposure. If companies don't take steps to limit X-ray doses, the agency may require a label on their new equipment recommending it not be used on children. X-rays and CT scans can provide doctors with lots of useful information. But the radiation that creates the helpful images also increases a person's risk for cancer. There's been an explosion in the use of imaging tests. And rising radiation doses, particularly from CT scans, have drawn concern. The cancer risk increases with the dose of X-rays received during a person's lifetime, so kids' exposure is particularly important. It's also the case that children are more sensitive to X-ray damage. The FDA is also telling parents to speak up. If a doctor orders a test or procedure that uses X-rays, parents shouldn't be afraid to ask if it's really necessary. Also, it doesn't hurt to ask if there's an acceptable alternative, such as ultrasound or MRI, that doesn't rely on X-rays."
Sorry... (Score:5, Funny)
Also, it doesn't hurt to ask if there's an acceptable alternative, such as ultrasound or MRI, that doesn't rely on X-rays.
"There is, but it is not covered by your health insurance."
Re:Image Gently (Score:4, Funny)
After my daughter swallowed some magnets, the stupid doctors refused to do an MRI instead of X-Rays.
Also: Vaccinations Bad!
Re:Can we please... (Score:5, Funny)
What can possibly go wrong? I hang my balls everyday in front of a CRT monitor connected to a megavolt power supply, in fact its a pretty good contraceptive :P
And it works even better on the days you forget to retrieve them and take them home with you, right? I can hear it now, in the car on the way home, "Damn, I've got an itch and no place to scratch."