Monday, June 11, 2012

Mammograms, Dental X-rays & Thyroid Cancers

Dr. Oz had a show on the fastest growing cancer in women, thyroid cancer. He said that the increase could be related to the use of dental x-rays and mammograms. He demonstrated that the apron the dentist puts on you for your dental x-rays has a little flap that can be lifted up and wrapped around your neck. Many dentists don't bother to use it. Also, there is something called a "thyroid guard" for use during mammograms. By coincidence, I had my yearly mammogram yesterday. I asked about the guard and sure enough, the technician had one in a drawer. I asked why it wasn't routinely used. Answer: "I don't know. You have to ask for it." Well, if I hadn't seen the show, how would I have known to ask?



Take note to request for the neck flap that is known as the "thyroid guard" when you need to do x-rays of your chest and mouth.

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails