Very Low Health Risks from Full—Body X-ray Scanners

Be it in airports, court buildings, or other venues, Americans are increasingly encountering full—body imaging systems, the new wave in electronic security screening. General-use X-ray security screening systems represent one of two full-body scanning technologies currently being put into widespread use to check people for concealed weapons, explosives, or other contraband without having to make physical contact. Extensive use of full—body scanning technologies, including the general-use X-ray systems, is a relatively new development. Thus it's natural for people to have questions—including questions about whether these systems pose any health risks. However, FDA Engineer Daniel Kassiday says, ”The dose from one screening with a general-use X-ray security screening system is so low that it presents an extremely small risk to any individual."