Looking into future: challenges in radiation protection in medicine

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiology
• Radiation Biology

Background:

• Increasing use of X-rays and advanced imaging modalities necessitates enhanced radiation protection strategies.
• Computed tomography (CT) and nuclear medicine scans (PET, SPECT) are becoming high-dose examination focal points.
• Understanding long-term carcinogenic effects and cumulative radiation dose impacts is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the growing importance of radiation protection in medical imaging.
• To identify key challenges in radiation dosimetry and patient safety.
• To advocate for clearer radiation metrics and biological indicators.

Main Methods:

• Review of current trends in medical radiation exposure.
• Analysis of challenges in radiation dose assessment and tracking.
• Discussion of strategies for minimizing radiation risks to patients and staff.

Main Results:

• Computed tomography (CT) doses are decreasing, shifting focus to other nuclear medicine examinations.
• Development of standardized, easily applicable radiation metrics is a significant challenge.
• Need for biological indicators and patient-specific dose tracking is evident.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced radiation protection measures are essential with the expanding use of medical imaging.
• Addressing challenges in radiation metrics, biological dosimetry, and patient tracking is vital for safety.
• Minimizing radiation exposure and building patient confidence are key priorities in modern radiology and radiotherapy.