There are several common misconceptions about X-rays among the public. These misconceptions often stem from a lack of understanding about how X-rays work and their effects on the human body. Here are some prevalent misconceptions:
1. X-rays Cause Immediate Harm
Many people believe that a single X-ray can cause significant harm or radiation sickness. In reality, the amount of radiation used in diagnostic X-rays is very low, and the risk of immediate harm from a single X-ray exposure is minimal. However, repeated exposure should be managed carefully.
2. All X-rays are safe
Excessive exposure to X-rays can be harmful. Medical X-rays are highly controlled and are generally safe when used appropriately. The benefits of diagnosing and treating medical conditions usually outweigh the minimal risks associated with the radiation exposure from X-rays. Furthermore, x-rays should be done with a clear indication and not to be misused for any circumstances.
3. Pregnant Women Should Never Have X-rays
While caution is indeed warranted when considering X-rays for pregnant women, it is not an absolute contraindication. In cases where the benefits of the X-ray outweigh the potential risks to the foetus, such as in emergencies or when diagnosing serious conditions, X-rays may be performed with appropriate shielding.
The main concern with getting an X-ray while pregnant is how much radiation the baby will be exposed to. Exposure to high doses of radiation can cause miscarriages, birth defects, and some cancers later in life. But X-rays emit very small amounts of radiation, so the risk of harm to the baby is extremely low.
Since the X-ray beam isn’t pointed directly at the abdomen during an X-ray of the teeth, chest, or arms and legs, the baby is exposed to miniscule amounts of radiation – you’d need to get thousands of X-rays to reach a radiation level that could harm the baby.
Still, no risk at all is better than a small risk. To be extra safe, tell your healthcare provider you’re pregnant when you get an X-ray and they’ll place a lead apron over your abdomen to minimize your baby’s exposure to radiation.
4. X-rays can only be done in provincial hospitals
There are portable x-ray machines that can be kept in many district hospitals and operated by trained health workers. Unfortunately, many of our district hospitals lack this important equipment, so patients need to travel long distances to their provincial hospitals to access this service.
5. Diagnosis is always from an x-ray
Radiological investigations including x-rays do play an important role in confirming a diagnosis in certain illnesses but most often doctors can diagnose patients with a simple history and examination alone.
6. X-rays Are Obsolete Due to Newer Imaging Techniques
Despite advances in medical imaging technology, such as MRI and CT scans, X-rays remain a crucial diagnostic tool due to their speed, efficiency, and lower cost. They are particularly useful for examining bones and detecting fractures. In PNG only a handful of hospitals have a CT scan and trained radiologists to operate them.
7. Protective Measures Are Unnecessary for Low-Dose X-rays
Even though diagnostic X-rays involve low doses of radiation, protective measures such as lead aprons and thyroid shields are still used to minimise exposure to non-targeted areas, ensuring patient safety.
8. X-rays Can Make You Radioactive
Some people believe that they become radioactive after having an X-ray. X-rays do not leave any radioactive residue in the body. The radiation passes through the body during the procedure and does not linger.
9. X-rays Are Used Exclusively for Bones
While X-rays are often associated with imaging bones, they are also used to examine soft tissues, such as the lungs (chest X-rays), breasts (mammography), and the abdominal region. Even so x-rays are not as superior as CT scans or MRIs for imaging of other tissues apart from bones.
10. You Cannot Refuse an X-ray
Patients have the right to discuss any concerns about X-rays with their healthcare provider and to refuse the procedure if they wish. Healthcare providers should explain the risks and benefits to help patients make informed decisions.
11. X-rays do not use a lot of resources
Newer X-rays use a lot of power to function and need specialist staff to operate and manage the equipment.
12. All Types of X-rays Have the Same Radiation Dose
Different types of X-ray procedures involve varying amounts of radiation. For example, a chest X-ray has a much lower dose of radiation compared to a CT scan. Understanding the difference in radiation levels can help mitigate unfounded fears.
13. Always trust whatever the healthcare provider says about your xray
Always ask why you need an x-ray. Always ask what type of xrays you need. Always ask for an interpretation of the x-rays you get. If you need a second opinion always ask for one.
Let us know if you have any other comments below.
References
- Brenner, D. J., & Hall, E. J. (2007). Computed tomography—an increasing source of radiation exposure. *New England Journal of Medicine*, 357(22), 2277-2284.
- “Radiation and Health.” World Health Organization, http://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/radiation-radiation-and-health. Accessed 23 June 2024.
- “Radiation Protection Basics.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/protection.html. Accessed 23 June 2024.
- https://www.webmd.com/baby/x-rays-during-pregnancy-what-to-know
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