MLA Dr Ishank busts myths about CT, MRI scans

Concerned about the rising tide of misinformation surrounding CT scans, MRI and radiodiagnostic procedures, MLA Chabbewal and MD (Radio-Diagnostics) Dr Ishank Kumar has urged people not to allow fear or hearsay to stand in the way of timely medical care.

“Radiology sounds frightening to many because they hear terms like radiation or magnet, but modern imaging is safe, regulated and designed to protect patients, not harm them,” Dr Ishank said while addressing common myths that often deter patients from undergoing essential tests.

Myth 1: Cancer Risk

Dr Ishank described the belief that routine imaging causes cancer as “scientifically incorrect and unnecessarily frightening”. “A chest X-ray gives less than 1 mGy, and a chest CT about 7–8 mGy. Harmful effects occur above 100 mGy. The doses we use are far below that and we strictly follow global ALARA safety standards,” he stated.

He added that when a scan is medically justified, “the benefit of detecting a serious illness clearly outweighs the tiny additional risk.”

Myth 2: Brain Damage

Calling this misconception dangerous, Dr Ishank clarified, “There is no such thing as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ rule for CT scans. CT does not burn or damage brain tissue. What matters is avoiding unnecessary scans, not avoiding needed ones.”

He warned that refusing a required CT scan can be life-threatening. “Missing a stroke, brain bleed or abdominal emergency is far riskier than the small radiation dose from a justified CT scan,” he said.

He explained that radiology teams ensure safety by: justifying every CT, using alternatives such as ultrasound or MRI when suitable, and avoiding repeated high-dose scans unless medically essential

Myth 3: MRI Safety

Dr Ishank emphasised that MRI uses no ionising radiation. “MRI works through magnetic fields and radio waves. There is no evidence of permanent tissue damage when MRI is done under proper screening,” he said.

He noted that MRI is safely used worldwide, even for children and selected pregnant women. The real concern lies with metallic implants or pacemakers, not tissue injury.

“People get scared of the noise or the tunnel, but these are manageable with counselling or mild sedation,” he added.

‘Talk to Doctors, Not to Rumours’

Dr Ishank urged people to rely on evidence-based medicine.

“No test is zero-risk, but modern radiology is designed so that the benefit far outweighs any potential harm. Fear should never delay the right diagnosis at the right time.”

He encouraged the public to seek clarification from qualified doctors rather than accept unverified social media claims.