Study: Scatter radiation from mammography does not increase cancer risk

Doses of scatter radiation received from mammograms are low and do not result in an increased risk of cancer, according to research being presented by Alison Chetlen.

Chetlen, an assistant professor of radiology at Penn State College of Medicine, said the results of her research suggest that the use of a thyroid shield during mammography is not needed. She presented the findings at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America.

Chetlen and her team measured the dose of radiation received by areas around the breast: the thyroid gland, salivary gland, sternum, uterus and the lens of the eye. Doses measured were low to negligible.

For more information on Chetlen's presentation to the Radiological Society of North America, visit http://www2.rsna.org/timssnet/Media/pressreleases/pr_target.cfm?id=622.

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