Radiation protection of the lens for patients and users

The problem of radiation-induced cataract development in the lenses of patients and users exposed to diagnostic-quality radiation is reviewed. A cataractogenic dose appears to be about 200 rads from a single exposure and up to 750 rads in protracted doses. Routine use of new protective glasses developed by the authors is recommended for patients. For users, any of the commercially available high lead-content glasses will reduce doses to safe levels. About 70% reduction of dose is afforded by the new photochromic sunglasses.