By Patrick Ebong.
The Atomic Energy Council has blamed the raising cases of cancer in the country on increased exposure of people to radiation emitted by ex-ray and CT scans.
A CT scan is a special test that produces cross-sectional images of the body using X-rays and a computer.
Radiation Protection Officer Charles Sekayaya says there are some private health facilities which are illegally using unlicensed, inadequate personal protective equipment and faulty machines.
Sekayaya says they have closed the X-ray department of Ronam Clinic in Lira after it was found to be using a faulty X-ray machine, operated by untrained radiographer.
He says many people who went to the health facility for X-ray are at higher risk of developing cancer because of over exposure to the radiation.
Sekayaya explains that if the machine is faulty it gives wrong doses to patients; the x-ray beam and the light beam are not aligned.
This exposes other body parts to the risk of radiation.
He said section 63 of the Atomic Energy Act prescribes a 10 year jail term without an option of a fine for someone who willingly operates a faulty machine.
Atomic Energy Council is carrying a week long inspection of X-rays and CT scan machines in Lira district
