What is the controversy surrounding full body scans and what is the dilemma this is creating for physicians? What are the dangers of full body scans?

Check this site.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full-body_scan

I searched Google under the key words "'full body scans'" to get these possible sources:

http://www.bodyscan.md/body_scans.html
http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,2197764,00.asp
http://www.abc.net.au/health/thepulse/s1210384.htm
http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/yourhealth/a2003-08-01-bodyscan.html
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pubs/factsheet/pdf/body_scan_fs.pdf

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

The controversy surrounding full body scans mainly revolves around their potential benefits versus their potential harms. Full body scans are a medical imaging technique that allows physicians to see detailed images of a person's internal body structures. They can be useful in detecting diseases or abnormalities at an early stage, which may help in providing appropriate treatment.

However, there are several concerns and dilemmas associated with full body scans. One major issue is the risk of false-positive results. These scans can detect incidental findings that may not be clinically significant or require immediate intervention. False-positive results can lead to unnecessary follow-up tests, procedures, and psychological distress for patients.

Another concern is the potential overuse of full body scans. Some individuals may undergo these scans frequently, thinking it will provide them with comprehensive health information. However, it is important to note that not all diseases or conditions can be detected through full body scans. Relying solely on these scans may give a false sense of security and neglect other important aspects of preventive healthcare, such as regular check-ups and screenings.

Additionally, full body scans involve exposure to ionizing radiation, which can have potential health risks. Although the radiation dose from a single full body scan is generally low, repeated scans over time may accumulate radiation exposure. Furthermore, the long-term effects of low-dose radiation are not yet fully understood.

Physicians are faced with a dilemma when it comes to full body scans. On one hand, they want to provide the best possible care to their patients and utilize advanced imaging technologies for early disease detection. On the other hand, they must consider the potential harms, costs, and ethical concerns associated with full body scans. They need to carefully evaluate each patient's specific situation, medical history, and risk factors before recommending or performing these scans.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding full body scans stems from the balance between their potential benefits and the potential harms and limitations associated with them. Physicians must carefully weigh the risks and benefits, consider individual patient factors, and make informed decisions to ensure the best possible care for their patients.