Effects of low-dose ionizing radiation on cancer risk in adults

Low-Dose Exposure to Ionizing Radiation in Adulthood and Subsequent Cancer

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10489839

This study is looking into whether low doses of radiation from medical imaging, like CT scans, might increase cancer risks for adults, especially focusing on workers who have been exposed to radiation over time, to help make medical practices safer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10489839 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential cancer risks associated with low-dose ionizing radiation exposure that many adults experience, particularly from medical imaging procedures like CT scans. By analyzing a large international cohort of over 308,000 workers who have been monitored for radiation exposure, the study aims to understand how repeated low doses of radiation may influence cancer development over time. The research will focus on specific cancer types, age-related susceptibility, and the long-term effects of radiation exposure. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide valuable insights for improving radiation safety and decision-making in medical practices.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have undergone multiple diagnostic imaging procedures involving ionizing radiation.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to ionizing radiation or those with pre-existing cancer conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better guidelines for radiation exposure, potentially reducing cancer risk for patients undergoing diagnostic imaging.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding cancer risks associated with ionizing radiation, making this research a continuation of established findings.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.