Radiation in medical practice & health effects of radiation: Rationale, risks, and rewards

Abstract

Radiation is important in health and disease. It is imperative to use properly and prevent misuse or overuse. Pertinent trends of increasing radiation in the environment need analysis. We gleaned important information, from published evidence and authoritative resources, for practicing safely and preventing harm. Science & technology progress is for the betterment of mankind, and all efforts should be made to prevent any untoward effects. Children and paediatric patients deserve special attention because of their vulnerability due to multiple reasons. Effective investigations & interventions in medical settings should be done based on best evidence. All those ordering radiological investigations should take into consideration the radiation exposure values & especially decide on clinical impact of the investigation. Prenatal exposure to radiation has risks. Computed Tomography is responsible for 24% of all radiation exposure. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is useful for measuring changes in body tissue composition. Radiologists should tailor imaging individually. Radiotherapy is administered to more than half of all cancer patients. Acute toxicity alleviation and chronic toxicity consideration is important. Radiation emergencies can occur in isolation or as major catastrophe. Emergency life-support is needed. Decontamination along with using the ABCDE reduction approach components are elucidated. With increasing use of mobile phones the electro-magnetic fields produced by mobile phones use needs consideration. UV radiation overexposure prevention is with shade, clothing and hats. Applying sunscreen essential on those parts of the body that remain exposed like the face and hands. All the safety measures need popularization and continuous practice with precision & perfection.