X-RAYS, RADIATION, AND YOU
(Page 3 of 3)
January/February 1983
By Tom Ferguson, M.D. and Carol Berry, R.N.,N.P.
[2] Ask the practitioner if it is possible to use the results of previous X-ray studies instead of taking new ones. (It's a good idea to keep a permanent record of all X-rays taken of you and other members of your family. Note the date, the doctor or dentist who ordered the procedure, the type and purpose of the exam, and — if possible — the dosages.)
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[3] Because juveniles are at greater risk from X-rays than are adults, express special concern when it's suggested that your children receive X-rays.
[4] If there's any possibility that you're pregnant, tell your physician or dentist . . . don't wait to be asked. If you know you're pregnant, avoid all X-ray examinations of the abdomen or lower back unless there's a strong indication of a serious condition.
[5] If you're planning a pregnancy, have a physical examination and a dental checkup first, so that any necessary X-rays can be taken prior to conception.
[6] Try to avoid using mobile X-ray units.
[7] Don't agree to fluoroscopy if your physician acknowledges that ordinary films will provide adequate information.
[8] Question the need for routine preemployment X-ray exams.
[9] Refuse to submit to dental X-rays as part of every routine checkup unless you have special problems, or unless your dentist can justify the need for the exam.
[10] If you change dentists or are referred to a specialist, request that your new doctor obtain any available records rather than take new X-rays.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Medical and Dental X-Rays: A Consumer's Guide to Avoiding Unnecessary Radiation Exposure by Priscilla Laws can be ordered for $2.50 postpaid from the Health Research Group, Dept. TMEN, 2000 P Street N. W, Washington, D. C. 20036.
Medical Self-Care , Dr. Tom Ferguson's quarterly journal, is available for $15 per year from Medical Self-Care, Dept. TMEN, P.O. Box 717, Inverness, California 94937. A sample issue costs $4.00. Dr. Ferguson's book, also titled Medical Self-Care , can be ordered — for $8.95 plus 95¢ for shipping and handling from Mother's Bookshelf ® , 105 Stoney Mountain Road, Hendersonville, North Carolina 28791.
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