Final answer:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe and advanced medical imaging tool that does not use ionizing radiation, posing fewer health risks while providing detailed images for a variety of medical evaluations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about a form of diagnostic imaging that is both popular and poses fewer health risks compared to traditional methods such as X-rays and CT scans. One of the safest and most sophisticated options in this field is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI utilizes a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body's internal structures without exposing patients to ionizing radiation.
Additionally, optical fiber technology allows for non-intrusive diagnostics that can image areas just beneath the surface, useful for examining conditions like stomach and bowel cancers. While X-rays remain a staple, especially for viewing fractures and dental applications, they now come with better shielding to limit exposure to ionizing radiation.