Are X-ray technitians at risk?

Question

Are X-ray technitians at risk of developing an increased risk of cancer bc of their exposure to radiation? When an xray beam is shot on a leg of a patient, does the radiation spread out from that specific area? Thanks.

Answer 1

Yes, X-ray technicians are at an increased risk and that is why they wear lead aprons or step behind a lead screen when taking an x-ray, but that is because they are exposed to so much radiation on a daily basis. They also wear a badge that can detect the amount of radiation they are exposed to cumulatively over a period of time.

The beam spreads out to some degree which is why they cover any areas of the body they don't want to expose to radiation such as reproductive organs.

Answer 2

generally speaking, people who work in x-ray facilities are at an increased risk of x-ray radiation exposure, but mainly from secondary (or scatter) radiation rather than primary (or direct) radiation.

the x-ray beam coming out of x-ray machines can be focused and collimated to expose only what is directly in front of the tube, much like focusing light coming out of a flashlight. the x-ray beam however, can "bounce" off the walls and other surfaces in the room, and depending on the strength of the beam, may sufficently expose the people inside the examining room. rooms, however are usually designed to absorb the x-ray beam adequately.

also, as an added precaution, aside from collimating or focusing the beam on the intended part, the technician will usually place protective devices such as leaded shields or aprons over sensitive areas of the body such as the gonads, as long as it will not interfere with the examination.

so for practical purposes only if you stand in front of the x-ray tube without any form of protection will you receive high doses of radiation that could increase your chance of developing radiation-related diseases.

Answer 3

I have heard fom a professor that x-rays are the main cause of infertility to the technician and reciver of the x-ray and said your private areas such as overies and mens scrotum should always be coverd by the apron.