Sustainability and Climate Change Awareness, Attitudes, and Perceptions in Radiology: A Cross-Sectional Study in
Asseel Khalaf1, Eman Alawdhi1, Mohammad Rawashdeh2,3
1Radiologic Sciences Department, College of Allied Health Sciences Kuwait University Kuwait City Kuwait.
Health Science Reports
|April 23, 2026
Summary
Radiology professionals in Kuwait are aware of sustainability but lack formal training and institutional support for green imaging practices. Enhancing education and policies is crucial for integrating sustainable practices in healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Healthcare Management
- Radiology
Background:
- Medical imaging's environmental impact is significant due to energy- and resource-intensive technologies.
- Understanding radiology professionals' perspectives on sustainability is vital for developing effective strategies, especially in under-researched regions.
- This study focuses on Kuwait, evaluating awareness, attitudes, and perceptions of sustainability among radiology professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the awareness, attitudes, and perceptions of radiology professionals in Kuwait concerning sustainability and green imaging.
- To identify educational needs and institutional challenges related to implementing sustainable practices in radiology.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 186 radiology professionals in Kuwait.
- The questionnaire covered demographics, training in sustainability and recycling, perceptions of green imaging, and institutional barriers.
- Open-ended questions explored perceived barriers and opportunities for sustainable imaging.
Main Results:
- A high awareness of climate change and its healthcare relevance was reported, but formal training in sustainability (30.1%) and recycling (24.7%) was limited.
- Gender differences were noted in perceptions of climate change impacts (p < 0.05).
- Key barriers identified included a lack of institutional policies, leadership support, and resources for sustainable imaging.
Conclusions:
- Radiology professionals in Kuwait exhibit positive awareness and attitudes towards sustainability.
- Implementation of green imaging is hindered by educational gaps and institutional challenges.
- Improved sustainability training, leadership engagement, and policy frameworks are recommended to integrate sustainability into radiology services.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Radiation: Applications
The average temperature of Earth is the subject of much current discussion. Earth is in radiative contact with both the Sun and dark space; it receives almost all its energy from the radiation of the Sun and reflects some of it into outer space. Dark space is very cold, about 3 K, so Earth radiates energy into it. For instance, heat transfer occurs from soil and grasses, the rate of which can be so rapid that frost can occur on clear summer evenings, even in warm latitudes.
The average...
The average...
01:05Absorption of Radiation
The rate of heat transfer by emitted radiation is described by the Stefan-Boltzmann law of radiation:
01:30Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Radiological investigations, including X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, are critical for diagnosing and evaluating various medical conditions. These imaging techniques provide valuable insights into the body's internal structures, aiding in the detection of abnormalities, assessment of disease progression, and development of treatment strategies. This article delves into two primary radiological investigations, chest X-rays and CT scans, outlining their purpose, procedures, and the...
01:30Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
01:13Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Radiological investigations are paramount in the diagnosis and management of various pulmonary diseases. Two essential investigations are the Pulmonary Angiogram and the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan.
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
01:28Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) StudiesKidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) studies are standard diagnostic imaging procedures used to assess the anatomy of the urinary system. They are commonly utilized for patients experiencing abdominal pain or urinary symptoms. By using a simple X-ray of the abdomen, KUB studies can reveal structural and pathological abnormalities within the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These studies are particularly valuable in diagnosing kidney stones, urinary...