The Effects of Medical Radiation Exposure on Cardiometabolic Health: Understanding Biological Mechanisms

A BSTRACT Medical radiation exposure refers to ionizing radiation encountered during diagnostic imaging and therapeutic procedures. This review examines potential cardiometabolic effects, focusing on mechanisms such as oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction that may link radiation exposure to hypertension and metabolic disorders. The dose ranges associated with common diagnostic modalities (e.g., chest X-ray ~0.1–0.2 mSv, abdominal computed tomography [CT] ~8–10 mSv, and whole-body CT protocols >10–20 mSv) highlight how cumulative exposure from multiple studies or procedures could approach higher levels. Epidemiological findings from observational cohorts suggest a possible, modest association between higher cumulative medical radiation exposure and cardiometabolic outcomes, with relative risks in the low-to-moderate range (generally in the vicinity of 1.1–1.5 per defined exposure increments), although estimates are heterogeneous and subject to confounding. This work emphasizes the need for educational and awareness initiatives that mitigate risks while preserving the benefits of essential diagnostic and therapeutic radiologic practices. The findings offer actionable considerations for healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers as they navigate the balance between clinical benefits and potential cardiometabolic risks in modern medical radiation use.