Overestimation of radiation exposure may keep women from critical screening

Misinformation and misunderstanding about the risks associated with ionizing radiation create heightened public concern and fear, and may result in avoidance of screening mammography that can detect early cancers. The authors conclude that medical personnel should make concerted effort to accurately inform women of the risks and benefits of mammography--specifically highlighting the low dose of mammographic ionizing radiation--and provide objective facts to ensure that women make informed decisi...