Ask Dr KK: How common is multiple radiation exposures?

Multiple medical tests involving radiation exposure lead to high cumulative doses of radiation. In one study in 20 year period a heart patient may end up with 15 procedures involving radiation exposure. Of these four may be high dose procedures (≥3 mSv). The cumulative estimated effective dose from all medical sources exceeds 100 mSv in 31.4 percent of patients.

About the author: Dr K K Aggarwal is Padmashri and Dr B C Roy National Awardee, President Heart Care Foundation of India, Dean Board of Medical Education Moolchand Medcity, Sr. Physician & Cardiologist, Visiting professor Clinical Research DIPSAR, Past President Delhi Medical Association, Past Academic and Research Wing Head IMA, Chairman Ethics Committee Delhi Medical Council.