If they can verify (as they say) that the scanners only subject you to the equivalent of 2 minutes of flight time radiation (everyone is subjected to radiation flying but no one seems to be avoiding air travel due to it or screaming about it) then it is an acceptable risk for flight.

In the 1980's I had a bumper sticker that read, "Ralph Nader is radioactive"

I understand not wanting the full pat down, but really, if you don't want it, and you don't want the scan, then don't fly. Flying is optional which in turn makes the scans and pat downs optional.

I agree 100%. Maybe this is why former NFL head coach and announcer John Madden took the train instead of flying.