A new resolution has been introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives that seeks to reduce the amount of radiation dose delivered to children from CT and other imaging studies.
H. Res. 1216 would encourage radiologists, radiologic technologists, and other healthcare providers to "consider the different needs of children when it comes to radiation dosing." It would also encourage "appropriate use of computed tomography scans in children" and encourage radiation protection efforts in pediatric imaging so "children can be properly diagnosed and efficiently treated for injury and disease."
The resolution notes that while "medical imaging provides valuable and often life-saving medical information for patients and their families," imaging techniques should be tailored to take into account children's smaller bodies to avoid radiation exposure that is higher than necessary.
The resolution goes on to state that "there are many techniques that can be used to dramatically lessen the amount of radiation to which children are exposed during CT scans, while still enabling diagnostic quality images."
The resolution does not establish or mandate any changes to current medical practice to reduce radiation dose.
H. Res. 1216 was introduced by Rep. Sue Myrick (R-NC). The measure has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
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