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The high intensity x-ray beam delivers a significant dose to the first few cm (~1") of tissue. Due to the rapid beam movement the average dose is deceptively small but, very high to the small area while being scanned. Like a laser light show look at the beam directly and burns the eye in an instant. The rapid beam movement is difficult to measure; to date TSA/DHS has not permitted independent measurements. Being classified as a “non-medical” device the FDA has NEVER formally evaluated the system as required for any medical x-ray/radiation imaging/treatment device.  
 
Contrary to what you would think lower energy x-rays used in the security scanner is more damaging to DNA than higher energy x-rays or cosmic rays. To minimize the skin dose low energy x-ray are avoided for medical imaging. To make the scanner exposure appear smaller the dose is expressed as an effective or averaged over the volume when most of the x-rays are delivered to the skin. My calculations and other scientist estimate the skin dose is in the range of 20-45x of the “official” whole body or effective dose. 
 
Learn more about dose and protection.  
http://www.rockyflatsgear.com/How-penetrating-are-airport-back-scatter-x-rays.html

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