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Awareness, Perceptions, Barriers, and Training Needs for Green Imaging and Sustainability in Nuclear Medicine: A
Eman Alawadhi1, Asseel Khalaf1, Ahmad Alenezi1
1Radiologic Sciences Department, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait (E.A., A.K., A.A., L.G.).
Introduction:
Medical imaging impacts the environment via high energy use, materials, and waste. Green imaging can help reduce this, but healthcare professionals' awareness and training are unclear. This study evaluates nuclear medicine professionals' knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers toward green imaging, aiding sustainable practice integration.
Methods:
This study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative analysis of open-ended responses targeting nuclear medicine professionals via an online questionnaire. Quantitative data from structured items demographics, sustainability awareness, workplace practices, barriers, and training needs were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data from open-ended questions were analyzed through thematic content analysis.
Results:
A total of 171 nuclear medicine professionals completed the survey. Approximately 60% reported limited familiarity with green imaging, with fewer than 10% being very familiar; familiarity varied significantly by age (p = 0.001), with younger participants demonstrating lower awareness. Despite this, nearly all respondents recognized sustainability as beneficial, with 50% rating it extremely important and over 70% agreeing it could improve patient care. Significant gaps were identified in formal training, with 88% and 89% reporting no prior training in sustainability and recycling, respectively. Only 44% rated their organization's commitment as high or very high, while 65% believed their departments could do more. Key barriers included lack of training (76%), facility limitations (70.8%), and lack of support (68.4%). Qualitative findings reinforced the need for education, improved recycling practices, and stronger institutional commitment.
Conclusion:
Nuclear medicine professionals see sustainability as a crucial concern but face ongoing gaps in awareness, training, and support. Urgent education, infrastructure, and leadership are needed to adopt eco-friendly imaging and align with healthcare's climate goals.
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