ABSTRACT
Radiation dosage with plain radiography was, for many years, regarded as a non-issue. The largest component of the dose involved arises from computed tomography (CT) which is widely deployed. Each examination should, in theory, provide a diagnostic benefit, whether performed in high or low-income countries, the public sector or the private domain. Throughout the world, a practice exists of screening asymptomatic individuals, without a relevant risk profile, with the most sophisticated of radiological examinations. This is referred to as Individual Health Assessment (IHA) and is distinct from formally approved screening programmes, such as those for mammography and some other cancers. The pragmatic value set provides an effective roadmap in the evaluation of the scenarios described. It helps reach decisions that are likely to be socially acceptable and respected.
