Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Radiology Professionals about the Harmful Effects of Radiation which is Used for Diagnosis

Abstract

In this study, the survey was developed in order to identify the knowledge of radiology professionals regarding the ionizing radiation exposure, and their attitudes towards radiology applications. The survey was applied to 202 radiology professionals between March 15 and June 30, 2014. This cross-sectional study was performed in Diyarbakır province and its districts. The mean of age of 202 radiology professionals (111 males and 91 females) was 32,51. 90,6% of the radiology professionals are not aware of the annual MADL (maximum allowable dose limits) for their patients while  83,7% of them do not know that for themselves. Moreover, of all radiology professionals, 90,6% and 83.7% of them were not aware of the annual MADLs (maximum allowable dose limits) respectively for patients and for themselves. Moreover, 82,2% of them did not have any idea about the level of ionized radiation due to abdominal computed tomography (CT) equals to the level of radiation due to PA lung examinations. In case of other techniques in which ionizing radiation is used, 41;%, 32%, 34% and 30.5% of radiation professionals knew that ionizing radiation is used respectively in mammography, CT, angiography and scopy. Of all radiology professionals 91% and 89.5% of them did not know that ionization radiation is used in respectively in ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Of all radiation professionals, 21,9% of them stated that they did not use dosimeter. It was specified by radiation professionals that since they did not rely on the results of dosimeter, they did not use it. In order to increase the knowledge and awareness of radiation professionals regarding the radiation safety, in-service training programs are required.