What is the Radiation Danger From a Virtual Colonoscopy?

Virtual colonoscopy uses a CT scan to view the inside of the large intestine. The procedure, which is less invasive than a colonoscopy performed with a scope, allows doctors to check for polyps or cancer in the colon.

Cellular Damage

• According to the National Institutes of Health, radiation used during a virtual colonoscopy can cause damage to human cells. Large doses of radiation may decrease the effectiveness of the immune system and cause cataracts.

Cancer

• The Center for Radiological Research estimates the cancer risk associated with virtual colonoscopy radiation exposure is approximately 0.14 percent for a 50 year old.

Effect of Age

• A person's cells divide slower with increasing age; resulting in a lower risk of cancer from radiation. A 70 year old has a risk of approximately 0.07 percent from a virtual colonoscopy.

Organs at Risk

• The colon, bladder and stomach are the most commonly affected organs in virtual colonoscopy radiation-induced cancer.

Pregnancy

• Virtual colonoscopy during pregnancy is not advised, as CT scan radiation can cause fetal damage, especially to the brain.