Abstract
Sufficiently large amounts of ionizing radiation can cause death; possible non-lethal effects of large doses include cancer, atrophy of irradiated tissue, depression of immune reactions, and sterility. The authors claim that x-ray examination is justified only when diagnostic benefits outweigh the hazards. Results of a study to determine the amount of gonadal and bodily exposure during common x-ray examinations at a typical hospital are presented along with measures to be taken to reduce the gonadal dose.