NEWARK, N.J. -
Dr. Samara Friedman is a pediatric orthopedist who specializes in children's fractures and sports injuries. She needs to order X-rays and scans to treat her patients, but she tries to keep radiation levels to a minimum.
"I think it's important to limit that exposure while still getting the information we need from those tests," Friedman said.
The Food and Drug Administration is taking steps to minimize how much radiation children get. The FDA is urging manufacturers to design new scanners with children's safety in mind. The concern is that too much exposure may increase the risk of cancer later in life.
The FDA is also calling on parents to do more to cut down on unnecessary radiation. The agency advises parents to ask why a test is needed and whether there are radiation-free alternatives.
Anastasia Vandine, 6, has cerebral palsy and will need a lot of scans in her life. Her parents are aware of the risks.
"Just rely on the doctor. They're supposed to be trustworthy," dad Arthur Palmer said.
Doctors say radiation imaging is a necessary tool as long as it's overused.
The FDA is also working on new safety training materials for doctors and technicians who administer X-rays and scans to children.
