J . Yuan et al .: Radioprotection 2024 , 59 ( 3 ), 184 – 188 185
Table 1 . Number of subjects in each group and their mean scores .
Group of subjects |
Number of subjects , n (%) |
Mean score of out of 15 |
Standard deviation |
Radiologists |
110 ( 50.9 %) |
4.6 |
± 2.1 |
Technicians |
88 ( 40.7 %) |
4.1 |
± 1.6 |
Nurses |
18 ( 8.3 %) |
3.7 |
± 2.2 |
Total |
216 ( 100 %) |
4.3 |
± 2.0 |
under es�ma�on correct es�ma�on over es�ma�on 85 %
% of par�cipants |
0 %
26 %
74 %
|
62 %
34 %
4 %
|
14 %
1 %
|
74 %
67 % 65 %
57 %
36 %
28 %
27 % 26 %
5 % 7 % 8 %
0 %
|
Fig . 1 . Percentages of subjects who underestimated and overestimated the radiation dose for radiological examinations .
X-ray examination doses , a significant portion ( 74 %) of radiology staff incorrectly believed that nuclear medicine examinations had higher doses . The management of radiation examinations for pregnant women is a complex topic ( Mossman KL et al ., 1982 ). In general , CT scans and X-ray examinations should only be used when absolutely necessary and urgent . Our data reveals that only 8 % of individuals were able to handle this situation correctly , and 17 % of participants even suggested terminating the pregnancy . In reality , radiation impact on the fetus from X-ray or CT examinations outside the abdominal and pelvic region is primarily due to scattered radiation , resulting in very low and almost negligible doses ( Mainprize et al ., 2023 ). Therefore , radiology staff should carefully weigh the benefits of appropriate imaging examinations against the associated radiation risks in order to select the optimal examination plan for pregnant individuals .
In the past 3 yr , particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic , CT has emerged as a diagnostic tool for COVID-19 pneumonia , leading to its more frequent use among the general public . In addition , some recent literature shows that it was significant for conducting regular training for relevant personnel ( Dauda et al ., 2019 ; Bayatiani et al ., 2023 ; Mohebbi et al ., 2023 ). The aim of this study is to assess the level of knowledge and awareness regarding radiation dose and associated cancer risk among radiology staff in Wuxi , China . By focusing on radiology staff in Wuxi ’ s tertiary hospitals , we can obtain valuable insights into the current understanding and perceptions of radiation dose and associated risks among professionals working in a region with a relatively developed healthcare system . The findings from this study will contribute to the existing literature on radiation knowledge and awareness , shedding light on potential knowledge gaps and areas that require further attention and education .
In conclusion , this study seeks to address the gap in knowledge regarding radiation dose and associated cancer risk among radiology staff in Wuxi , China . By examining the perspectives of professionals in a representative region , we aim to contribute to the growing body of literature on radiation awareness and ultimately enhance patient safety , optimize imaging practices , and ensure the provision of highquality care in the field of medical imaging in Wuxi and potentially beyond . The results of this study may help identify specific areas for improvement in radiation education programs and serve as a basis for implementing targeted interventions aimed at enhancing radiation knowledge and promoting safe and responsible utilization of medical imaging resources .
Acknowledgements
The authors are grateful for the support from the Wuxi Health Committee and Wuxi translational medicine center .