Radiation Exposure Dose Trends and Radiation Dose Reduction Strategies in Medical Imaging

Since the discovery of x-rays, many investigations of radiation effects on humans have taken place. From the discovery of severe x-ray dermatitis near the end of 1896, the multiple radiation burns endured by Thomas Edison's assistant, Clarence Dally, to the establishment of early radiation regulation in 1929, radiation exposure has been a continuing concern. Studies from the 1940s to the 1960s looked at effects such as leukemia and other cancers that appeared to be caused by exposure to radiation; outcomes of these studies resulted in increased regulation, establishment of dose tolerances and the development of the National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP). Since the 1960s, similar studies have continued resulting in stricter dose limits. However, a recent resurgence of radiation exposure injuries led to this literature review that revealed a gap in the literature concerning the radiation practices and continued education of today's radiologic technologists. Through this review, recommendations for dose reduction strategies are included.