We all know how beneficial nuclear energy is. It is a good source of electricity and it is also used in weaponry. But, another field that is using nuclear power and transforming lives is the field of medicine. The branch of medical science that uses nuclear energy is called nuclear medicine. Nuclear medicine has given new hope to the illness and ailments difficult to treat. Thanks to technological advancements, it is being used in the right way and the right amount.
Nuclear medicine has made procedures like positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans efficiently possible and beneficial. These highly advance and equipped can produce x-rays which scan, detect and treat various medical conditions, very efficiently.
Like every good thing in the world, nuclear medicine also has its own pros and cons. There are supporters supporting the undeniable benefits of nuclear and there are people who believe it can be harmful to human body. Listed below are few advantages and disadvantages of nuclear medicine that everyone needs to be aware of:
Advantages of Nuclear Medicine:
1. Advanced treatment options
Nuclear medicine has digitally and technically enhanced the treatment options for various medical conditions. One such ailment is cancer. Cancer treatment involves radiation and chemotherapy. In severe cases, when patients have lost hope of survival, nuclear medicine has been a blessing to them.
2. Early detection of ailments
Nuclear medicine is extremely capable of detection of highly severe medical conditions. Their precision is what makes people believe in its power. It has helped many physicians and other medical professionals detect difficult possibilities in early stage of treatments.
3. Accuracy is the key
This is the best advantage of nuclear medicine. Its accuracy has made many complicated medical procedures simpler. Its accuracy also allows in depth examination and analysis. The precise procedures do not leave any stone unturned when it comes to treatments. Traditionally for detailed diagnosis, patients had to undergo difficult surgeries and procedures. Nuclear medicine has made it much easier.
Disadvantages of Nuclear Medicine:
1. High operating costs
As much as it is effective, it is expensive! Equipment cost, purchase cost, setting up cost, operations and maintaining, everything come with heavy expenditure. It is one of the biggest advantages of nuclear medicine.
2. Health risks
High or prolonged exposure to nuclear medicine unfortunately results in some serious health issues. These procedures and equipment give away harmful radiation which can be fatal especially to pregnant women and elderly patients. Some cases have also registered incurable ill effects.
3. No guaranteed assurance
In spite of the documented benefits and accuracy, nuclear medicine does not give 100% guarantee of cure. There is still room for doubt. But, medical science is full of predictions, possibilities and failures too.
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