Radiologists’ Knowledge and Attitudes towards CT Radiation Dose and Exposure in Saudi Arabia—A Survey Study

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) is a key imaging technique in diagnostic radiology, providing highly sensitive and specific information. While its use has increased dramatically in recent years, the quantity and associated risks of radiation from CT scans present major challenges, particularly in paediatrics. The fundamental principles of radiation protection require that radiation quantities be as low as reasonably achievable and CT use must be justified, particularly for paediatric patients. CT radiation knowledge is a key factor in optimising and minimising radiation risk. The objective of this study was to analyse knowledge level, expertise, and competency regarding CT radiation dose and its hazards in paediatrics among radiologists in Saudi Arabian hospitals. A self-reported, multiple-choice questionnaire assessed the attitudes and opinions of radiologists involved in imaging studies using ionising radiation. Among the total respondents, 65% ± 13.5% had a good comprehension of the dangers of carcinogenicity to the patient resulting from CT scans, with 80% presuming that cancer risks were elevated. However, only 48.5%, 56.5%, and 65% of the respondents were aware of specific radiation risks in head, chest, and abdominal paediatric examinations, respectively. Regular, frequent, and specific training courses are suggested to improve the fundamental knowledge of CT radiation among radiologists and other physicians.

Recommendations for reducing exposure to medical X‑ray irradiation (Review)

“…The same study found that only 65±13.5% of radiologists had clearer comprehension of the carcinogenicity of CT scans than the patient ( 46 ). Approximately 80% of radiologists presumed that CT scans were associated with an elevated risk of developing cancer; however, only 56.5, 48.5 and 65% of the radiologists were aware of the specific risks from radiation involved in the head, chest and abdominal pediatric examinations, respectively ( 46 ). Regular, frequent and specific training courses are suggested to improve the fundamental knowledge of radiologists and other physicians regarding radiation exposure from CT scans ( 46 ).…”

“…The International Commission on Radiological Protection advises that the occupational dose limit for radiation exposure should be 100 mSv over a period of 5 years, with a maximum of 50 mSv in any single year ( 45 ). According to a survey performed in Saudi Arabia, a number of radiologists have limited knowledge regarding the harmfulness and carcinogenicity of X-ray radiation ( 46 ). The same study found that only 65±13.5% of radiologists had clearer comprehension of the carcinogenicity of CT scans than the patient ( 46 ).…”

“…According to a survey performed in Saudi Arabia, a number of radiologists have limited knowledge regarding the harmfulness and carcinogenicity of X-ray radiation ( 46 ). The same study found that only 65±13.5% of radiologists had clearer comprehension of the carcinogenicity of CT scans than the patient ( 46 ). Approximately 80% of radiologists presumed that CT scans were associated with an elevated risk of developing cancer; however, only 56.5, 48.5 and 65% of the radiologists were aware of the specific risks from radiation involved in the head, chest and abdominal pediatric examinations, respectively ( 46 ).…”

“…Approximately 80% of radiologists presumed that CT scans were associated with an elevated risk of developing cancer; however, only 56.5, 48.5 and 65% of the radiologists were aware of the specific risks from radiation involved in the head, chest and abdominal pediatric examinations, respectively ( 46 ). Regular, frequent and specific training courses are suggested to improve the fundamental knowledge of radiologists and other physicians regarding radiation exposure from CT scans ( 46 ). It is thus suggested that the further training of radiologists, technicians and other medical professionals may also be required in China.…”

Reduction in Irradiation Dose in Aperture Coded Enhanced Computed Tomography Imager Using Super-Resolution Techniques

“…In this paper, we would like to expend the use of multi pinholes techniques to more medical modalities such as Computerized Tomography (CT). In the CT procedure, there is a need for a novel configuration and operation technique to enable three-dimensional imaging of a body with decreased radiation level and preferably increasing resolution compared to current conventional CT techniques [ 9 , 10 , 11 ].…”