Children do generally receive more radiation from a CT scan than adults, but this is not simply because the machine emits more radiation for children. Instead, it is due to several factors related to their smaller size, greater sensitivity to radiation, and the way doses are adjusted during imaging.
CT scans use ionizing radiation to create detailed images of the inside of the body. This radiation dose is higher than that of a standard X-ray because CT scans take multiple images from different angles to produce cross-sectional views. While the amount of radiation used in a CT scan is carefully controlled, children are more vulnerable to its effects because their bodies are still growing and their cells divide more rapidly, making them more sensitive to radiation damage.
One key reason children can receive a relatively higher dose is that their smaller body size means the radiation is concentrated over a smaller volume. Additionally, because children’s tissues absorb radiation differently than adults, the effective dose—the measure of radiation risk—can be higher for the same scan parameters. For this reason, medical professionals follow strict guidelines to minimize radiation exposure in children, often using lower doses tailored specifically for pediatric patients.
The principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) is applied rigorously in pediatric imaging. This means that the radiation dose is kept as low as possible while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. Modern CT scanners have advanced technology that allows for dose reduction, such as faster scanning times and improved image processing, which helps reduce the radiation burden on children.
Despite these precautions, the increased sensitivity of children to radiation means that repeated CT scans can slightly increase their lifetime risk of developing cancer compared to adults. This risk is why CT scans in children are only recommended when absolutely necessary, and alternative imaging methods that do not use ionizing radiation—such as ultrasound or MRI—are preferred whenever possible.
In summary, children do receive more radiation relative to their size and sensitivity during a CT scan than adults, but medical professionals take extensive measures to reduce this exposure. The goal is to balance the benefits of accurate diagnosis with the potential risks of radiation, ensuring that CT scans are used judiciously and safely in pediatric care.
