In-Flight Radiation: Addressing Patients' Concerns

Several years ago, mainstream media outlets discussed the controversial implementation of passenger X-ray screening devices at major airports. In an attempt to assuage passengers' fears, various experts made comparisons between the radiation from those units to the significantly higher levels that would be experienced as a result of the expected increase in radiation exposure associated with airline travel at high altitudes. Although these X-ray scanners were removed from service in 2013 and replaced with devices using radiofrequencies rather than ionizing radiation, numerous Internet discussion forums have increased the public's awareness of radiation exposure associated with airline travel. In these web-based comments, readers' responses to the postings (and sometimes the postings themselves) often misstate facts about the risks associated with in-flight radiation. We will provide guidance here that should allow radiology nurses and their colleagues to answer patient questions about the hazards of exposure to this radiation for adults and children, and, as well, address the issue of fetal risks for pregnant passengers.