Among the many sources of ionizing radiation are traditional X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, fluoroscopy, and other medical radiological procedures. A newer source of X-rays is the use of backscatter scanners in airport security (Brenner, 2011). Sources of gamma rays include emissions from nuclear power plants, scientific research involving radionuclides, military weapons testing, and nuclear medicine procedures such as bone, thyroid and lung scans (EPA, 2005).
In 2005, the National Toxicology Program classified X-radiation and gamma radiation as known human carcinogens. Although some scientists challenge this prenme (e.g., Habron, 2012), most agree that there is no such thing as a safe dose of radiation (Brenner, 2003; NRPB, 1995). A 2005 National Research Council report confirms this finding stating that “the risk of cancer proceeds in a linear fashion at lower doses [of ionizing radiation] without a threshold and … the smallest dose has the potential to cause a small increase in risk to humans” (NRC, 2005).
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