Abstract

KNOWLEDGE AMONG GENERAL PUBLIC REGARDING ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES OF RADIOLOGICAL EXAMINATION

Virendra Singh, V. K. Singh, Pratap Shankar*, Dheeraj Singh, Preet Lakhani, Sachin Tutu, Amod Kumar, R. K. Dixit

ABSTRACT

Background: Radiological examinations play an indispensable role in the diagnosis, management and treatment planning. However, the use of ionizing radiation is also associated with potentially harmful biological effects. These adverse effects vary according to dose and duration of exposure. Aim and objectives: To assess knowledge and attitudes among general population regarding adverse consequences of radiological examination. Material and method: Result: Only 54.4 % participants thought that radiations can cause harmful effects. Only 38.4 % know that X ray can cause cancers while in case of CT, 40.2 % thought that it can cause cancers. 79.4 % showed their interest in knowing about the radiation hazards. Conclusion: The knowledge and practices of the study subjects regarding radiation hazards and protection were poor. There is a definite need to spread awareness about radiation hazards and protection.

Keywords: Radiation, hazards, CT scan X-ray, cancers.