The objective of this work was to evaluate the radiation exposure received by workers in the nuclear medicine department of a private hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, during the period 2022-2023. The Hp (10) and Hp (0.07) r...The objective of this work was to evaluate the radiation exposure received by workers in the nuclear medicine department of a private hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, during the period 2022-2023. The Hp (10) and Hp (0.07) readings for 15 workers including nuclear medicine (NM) physicians, nurses, and technologists who performed tasks in PET/CT and SPECT/CT were retrieved and analysed retrospectively. The results showed that in 2022, the average accumulated Hp (10) values for NM physicians, nurses, and technologists were, 1.5 ± 0.3 mSv, 1.9 ± 0.4 mSv, and 2.1 ± 0.6 mSv, respectively. Compared with 2022 (9.45 mSv vs 16.07 mSv), the mean annual extremity doses to nurses and technologists increased by 37.5% and 44.6%, respectively, in 2023 (15.11 mSv vs 29.05 mSv), due to the increase in the number of procedures. Technologists, particularly those responsible for preparing and administering the radiopharmaceuticals in PET/CT, recorded the maximum annual effective dose (3.0 mSv) and extremity dose (91.3 mSv) during 2022 and 2023.
ICRP 103 guidelines and EURATOM Directive 2013/59 require close monitoring of radioactive emissions, ensuring that public exposure remains below 10 $\mu $Sv/year. To meet these limits, reliable and accurate monitoring sy...ICRP 103 guidelines and EURATOM Directive 2013/59 require close monitoring of radioactive emissions, ensuring that public exposure remains below 10 $\mu $Sv/year. To meet these limits, reliable and accurate monitoring systems are essential. This study presents a method for calibrating large-area proportional counters used for monitoring the emissions of $^{18}F$ and $^{11}C$ gases during the production of PET radiopharmaceuticals. The proposed method makes it possible to accurately determine the calibration factor for measuring the air activity concentration. In addition, the efficiency of absolute and activated carbon filters in reducing radioactive emissions was evaluated. The results showed a filtration efficiency of 98$\%$. This underscores the importance of combining detection system with efficient air filtration to ensure that radionuclide production facilities remain within regulatory limits, protecting both public health and the environment.
Brain computed tomography (CT) is commonly performed in pediatric patients; however, radiation exposure to radiosensitive organs such as the lens and thyroid remains a major concern. This prospective study investigated t...Brain computed tomography (CT) is commonly performed in pediatric patients; however, radiation exposure to radiosensitive organs such as the lens and thyroid remains a major concern. This prospective study investigated the impact of gantry tilt on organ doses using thermoluminescent dosemeters. A total of 67 pediatric patients undergoing brain CT were divided into four age groups: 0-18 months, 18 months-5 y, 5-10 y, and 10-17 y. In vivo lens and thyroid doses were measured with and without gantry tilt, and their correlation with volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) was assessed. Significant positive correlations were observed between CTDIvol and both lens and thyroid doses. With gantry tilt, mean lens doses were 2.19-5.73 mGy and thyroid doses 0.68-0.99 mGy, compared with 10.89-29.30 mGy and 1.29-3.72 mGy, respectively, without tilt. Gantry tilt parallel to the supraorbital-meatal baseline substantially reduced organ doses, particularly to the lens, and should be considered as a practical optimisation technique in pediatric neuroimaging.
Examining occupational exposure to external ionizing radiation in radiotherapy facilities is crucial for evaluating regulatory compliance and technological progress. This study analysed exposure records for 158 workers a...Examining occupational exposure to external ionizing radiation in radiotherapy facilities is crucial for evaluating regulatory compliance and technological progress. This study analysed exposure records for 158 workers at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute from 2019 to 2023, focusing on whole-body dose (Hp (10)) data. Over the 5-year period, radiotherapists, medical physicists, oncologists, nurses, engineers, nuclear medicine specialists, radiologists, and office attendants received an average effective dose of 0.60 ± 0.34 mSv, ranging from 0.1 to 1.3 mSv. The number of workers increased from 91 in 2019 to 158 in 2023. Doses exceeding 5 mSv represented only 8% of the total collective dose, with most individual doses remaining below 1 mSv. The annual average effective dose was below the global average, reflecting satisfactory radiation protection at the facility.
This study provides an evaluation of public health and economic impacts following a hypothetical nuclear accident. Using the Pasquill-Gifford (PG) atmospheric stability classification, simulations were conducted with Hot...This study provides an evaluation of public health and economic impacts following a hypothetical nuclear accident. Using the Pasquill-Gifford (PG) atmospheric stability classification, simulations were conducted with HotSpot Health Physics to determine the total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) and associated excess relative risk (ERR) for radiation-induced leukemia. Risk estimates were obtained through the biological effects of ionizing radiation V and VII radioepidemiological models, considering age- and sex-specific vulnerability across various exposure zones. The Geographic Information Systems (GISs), combined with demographic data, enabled stratified analysis. The results reveal differences in exposure and risk patterns that are influenced by environmental conditions, demography, and atmospheric stability. Furthermore, this study introduces a cost-assessment approach based on ERR-adjusted radiation dose distributions, offering a conservative perspective on the economic impact of radiological health effects. The work also emphasizes the significance of demographic sensitivity and conservative latency assumptions in fostering resilient medium-term public health strategies.
This study investigates and analyzes the abnormal results of personal dose monitoring among radiation workers in Chongqing from 2021 to 2024, aiming to provide a scientific basis for occupational health management and ra...This study investigates and analyzes the abnormal results of personal dose monitoring among radiation workers in Chongqing from 2021 to 2024, aiming to provide a scientific basis for occupational health management and radiation protection practices. The Registration Form for Investigation of Occupational External Exposure Individual Monitoring Doses was issued to individuals whose single monitoring results exceeded the investigation level. Detailed investigations were conducted to identify the causes of abnormal doses, including on-site radiation protection testing when necessary. From 2021 to 2024, a total of 1043 abnormal personal doses were recorded among 182 014 monitoring instances, yielding an abnormal rate of 0.57%. Diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology workers accounted for the majority of cases, at 64.43% and 22.53%, respectively. Most abnormal doses were below 5 mSv (72.48%). The primary causes included improper dosemeter usage (75.74%), increased workload (14.29%), and unidentified reasons (9.97%). The actual exposure rate was significantly higher among interventional radiology workers (47.66%) and those in tertiary hospitals (28.67%). Strengthening radiation protection training, improving dosemeter usage compliance, and optimizing workload management are essential to reduce abnormal doses. Special attention should be given to interventional radiology workers and tertiary hospital staff to mitigate occupational radiation risks.
Volumetric modulated arc therapy for pediatric medulloblastoma improves target precision but increases low-dose exposure to healthy tissues, elevating secondary cancer risks. This study evaluates treatment planning syste...Volumetric modulated arc therapy for pediatric medulloblastoma improves target precision but increases low-dose exposure to healthy tissues, elevating secondary cancer risks. This study evaluates treatment planning system (TPS) accuracy for out-of-field dose (OOFD) predictions by performing measurements with optically stimulated luminescence dosemeters (OSLDs) in an anthropomorphic phantom. TPS predictions were accurate near the field (<3% at 5.5 cm) but significantly underestimated doses at larger distances, with discrepancies ranging from 16% (thyroid) to 64% (heart). These findings highlight TPS limitations in modeling peripheral leakage and scatter and underscore the critical role of OSLD-based monitoring for pediatric patients. Accurate OOFD verification is essential for risk assessment and long-term safety. Future work should focus on refining TPS algorithms and integrating direct dosimetry into clinical practice for this vulnerable population.
In Korea, coal-fired power plants manage fly ash by landfilling, which can cause radiological impacts on the general public. Therefore, a radiation dose assessment must be performed to verify the radiological safety of t...In Korea, coal-fired power plants manage fly ash by landfilling, which can cause radiological impacts on the general public. Therefore, a radiation dose assessment must be performed to verify the radiological safety of the general public around the coal-fired power plant. The objective of this study is to assess the radiation dose to the general public in Korean coal-fired power plants. To achieve this, we investigated the radioactivity concentration of fly ash generated from coal-fired power plants. The exposure scenarios were established based on the purpose of the site utilization and characteristics of the general public. The RESRAD-OFFSITE was used to assess the radiation dose. The radiation dose ranged from 2.36 × 10-5 ~ 5.60 × 10-2 mSv yr-1, which was lower than the annual dose limit regulated by the Nuclear Safety Act. The results of this study can be used as technical data for the radiological safety management of a Korean naturally occurring radioactive material facility.
This study aims to determine effective energy and scattered radiation distributions in an interventional cardiology department. Additionally, the protective effectiveness of ceiling-suspended shielding was investigated....This study aims to determine effective energy and scattered radiation distributions in an interventional cardiology department. Additionally, the protective effectiveness of ceiling-suspended shielding was investigated. Optically stimulated luminescence dosemeters were attached to mica rods to determine effective energy and scattered radiation at numerous points in the catheterization laboratory. The effective energy of the scattered beam ranged from 40 to 50 keV, with the beam scattered to the eye position reaching an effective energy of 45 keV. Radiation was distributed nonuniformly at different locations and heights. Ceiling-suspended shielding reduced the dose to the head and neck region but did not significantly affect other regions. The combination of a suitable standing position and ceiling-suspended shielding can notably diminish the staff's eye dose by >93%.
This study investigated occupational external exposure levels and trends among industrial radiation workers in Jiangsu Province during 2010-2018. Utilizing thermoluminescence dosimetry for personal dose monitoring and Kr...This study investigated occupational external exposure levels and trends among industrial radiation workers in Jiangsu Province during 2010-2018. Utilizing thermoluminescence dosimetry for personal dose monitoring and Kruskal-Wallis test for inter-group comparisons, we analyzed radiation exposure across occupational categories. Results revealed an annual effective dose range of 0.16-0.58 mSv (mean: 0.26 mSv), exhibiting an initial increase followed by subsequent decline. While all values remained significantly below the national limit of 20 mSv, significant inter-category differences were observed (H = 35.282, P < 0.05). Industrial flaw detection workers demonstrated particularly elevated exposure levels, with some cases exceeding annual limits. These findings highlight the necessity for reinforced protective measures, enhanced monitoring protocols, and comprehensive training initiatives to mitigate occupational radiation risks in this vulnerable subgroup.
The current activities of the Korean Biological Dosimetry Network (K-BioDos) have focused on harmonizing the scoring of chromosomal aberrations. However, other biodosimetry procedures have not been sufficiently considere...The current activities of the Korean Biological Dosimetry Network (K-BioDos) have focused on harmonizing the scoring of chromosomal aberrations. However, other biodosimetry procedures have not been sufficiently considered in preparation for large-scale radiological accidents. This study aimed to investigate the current status of various resources for performing cytogenetic biodosimetry on many samples and explore the limitations and future directions for analyzing large sample sizes. Although the capacity to score cytogenetic aberrations has improved, processing thousands of samples within a limited period remains a significant challenge. To further enhance biodosimetry performance, we recommend the establishment of automated systems for sample handling and increased government support to ensure adequate material resources. Additionally, we highlight the importance of developing strategies to assess occupationally exposed populations. These measures could enable K-BioDos and other national and international networks to establish comprehensive frameworks for dose assessment in large-scale radiological incidents.
Internal contamination with plutonium (Pu) isotopes represents one critical exposure scenario in nuclear fuel cycle facilities. Lung counting is commonly employed as the initial individual monitoring method following inh...Internal contamination with plutonium (Pu) isotopes represents one critical exposure scenario in nuclear fuel cycle facilities. Lung counting is commonly employed as the initial individual monitoring method following inhalation of Pu. Due to the low detection sensitivity for characteristic X-rays emitted by Pu isotopes, the γ-ray emitted by coexisting 241Am is typically used as a surrogate for measurement. However, it is essential to establish clear procedures applicable in cases of severe internal exposure. In this study, key challenges associated with lung counting and dose assessment were examined, focusing on an inhalation event of reactor-grade Pu compounds containing 238Pu to 242Pu. These challenges included: complex spectral peak analysis; increased minimum detectable activity for Pu isotopes due to interference from 241Am; and evaluation of the minimum assessable dose considering Pu isotopic composition. Based on these considerations, procedures from lung counting to internal dose assessment were refined to support emergency response.
Recent years have witnessed an increase in mortality and morbidity from chronic diseases unrelated to tumors in patients with malignant tumors. While radiation therapy reduces local tumor recurrence, it may elevate late...Recent years have witnessed an increase in mortality and morbidity from chronic diseases unrelated to tumors in patients with malignant tumors. While radiation therapy reduces local tumor recurrence, it may elevate late mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The relationship between radiotherapy for cancer and CVD risk remains debated. This study analyzed the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) Database from 1975 to 2014, focusing on long-term CVD observation periods of 1, 5, and 10 y. We tracked patients from cancer diagnosis to death or last follow-up, calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for cardiovascular-specific survival (CVSS) using Fine-Gray binary competing risk regression analysis. Our analysis included 303 665 patients diagnosed with rectal (18 398), breast (276 263), and cervical (8004) cancers. Among these, 7098 (2.34%) died from CVDs. Rectal cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, mainly in later stages, showed a reduced risk of CVD mortality (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.61-0.84). Breast cancer patients treated with radiotherapy, who generally had smaller tumors, experienced significantly lower cardiovascular mortality (HR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.46-0.51). Conversely, cervical cancer patients receiving radiotherapy had a higher rate of CVD mortality (HR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.30-3.52). The AUC values for 3-y CVSS were 0.788, 0.837, and 0.821 for rectal, breast, and cervical cancers, respectively, indicating good predictive accuracy. The impact of tumor radiotherapy on CVD outcomes appears cancer-type specific, with cervical cancer radiotherapy increasing the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) help optimize panoramic radiography by balancing patient dose and image quality. Cyprus lacks national DRLs, highlighting the need to establish local DRLs (LDRLs) within State Health Se...Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) help optimize panoramic radiography by balancing patient dose and image quality. Cyprus lacks national DRLs, highlighting the need to establish local DRLs (LDRLs) within State Health Services Organization (SHSO) hospitals as a part of quality assurance program. This study assessed imaging conditions for paediatric and adult patients undergoing panoramic radiography at SHSO hospitals to determine LDRLs. Patient data (age, sex), hospital location, exposure parameters, and dose area product (DAP) were extracted from the central PACS using the DOSE (Qaelum NV, Belgium) management system. Radiographs were acquired with four panoramic units at Nicosia General Hospital (NGH), Limassol General Hospital (LiGH), Larnaca General Hospital (LaGH), and Famagusta General Hospital (FGH). Third quartile DAP values were defined as LDRLs for paediatric (< 18 years) and adult (≥ 18 years) groups. DAP and exposure conditions were analysed based on hospital and sex groups. LDRLs were also compared with published reference values. The LDRLs were 116 mGycm2 for paediatric and 119 mGycm2 for adult patients. Mean DAP was significantly lower in paediatric patients (p < .001), although the decrease is relatively small (4%). Tube voltage was significantly higher in adults (p < .001). Significant inter-hospital differences in DAP and exposure parameters were observed (p < .001), with the highest doses recorded at LaGH due to elevated tube voltage and current. Adult males showed higher DAP than females (p < .05); in paediatric patients, significant sex-based differences were observed at NGH and in total dataset. SHSO DAP values were generally higher, except at LiGH and NGH that were comparable to or lower than those in the international literature. This study established LDRLs for panoramic radiography in Cyprus' public hospitals, filling a critical gap in national radiation protection data and supporting legal compliance. The LDRLs may serve as baseline for optimizing dental radiographic practices within the SHSO. Higher DAP compared to international data suggest a need for enhanced dose optimization, particularly in paediatric imaging. Significant inter-hospital differences in DAP and exposure parameters, despite standardized equipment and protocols, highlighting the need for further standardization and quality improvement.
In this paper, we have assessed the specific absorption rate (SAR) in fetal brain and lungs during the second trimester of pregnancy conditions of body exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). SAR calcu...In this paper, we have assessed the specific absorption rate (SAR) in fetal brain and lungs during the second trimester of pregnancy conditions of body exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). SAR calculations were performed for frontal and lateral incidences, with both vertical and horizontal polarization of the incident electromagnetic (EM) waves at frequencies ranging from 2.45 to 5 GHz. A realistic pregnant human model with a belly button piercing was implemented for numerical simulation for nonionizing dosimetry. The simulation results reveal that SAR tends to rise in the presence of belly-button piercing. The highest SAR10g recorded on the fetus's lungs was 16 mW/kg at a frequency of 2.45 GHz. Similarly, the maximum SAR10g value on the fetus's brain was measured 14 mW/kg, occurring at a frequency of 2.45 GHz. Results indicate that metal objects can lead to an increase in SAR values. However, obtained values remain below limits set by international organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection.
Alanazi M, Kench P, Tavakoli-Taba S
… +1 more, Ekpo E
Radiat Prot Dosimetry
· 2025 Oct · PMID 40985847
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This study investigates computed tomography (CT) dose management and automatic dose monitoring software (DMS) use in Australian radiology departments. An online survey covering departmental characteristics, dose manageme...This study investigates computed tomography (CT) dose management and automatic dose monitoring software (DMS) use in Australian radiology departments. An online survey covering departmental characteristics, dose management practices, DMS usage, and radiation protection activities was distributed through national radiation organisations and social media. Of the 132 initial responses received, 45 were eligible, completed, and analysed. The findings indicate 91% (n = 41/45) of departments regularly assess CT doses, with 63% (n = 26/41) conducting such assessments only once a year. Automatic DMS tools were utilised by 41% (n = 17/41) of these departments for CT dose data collection and analysis, while 59% (n = 24/41) relied on traditional methods. Only 25% (n = 6/24) of non-DMS users indicated plans for future adoption. A radiation protection team was present in 41% (n = 17/41) of departments. While dose assessment is commonly practised, it mostly relies on manual methods and is performed infrequently. Broader DMS implementation and formal radiation protection teams are recommended to strengthen CT dose management and enable continuous monitoring.
Activity concentrations of radionuclides from the thorium and uranium series, which contribute most to radiation exposure through ingestion in the existing radiation situation, were measured. Activity concentrations were...Activity concentrations of radionuclides from the thorium and uranium series, which contribute most to radiation exposure through ingestion in the existing radiation situation, were measured. Activity concentrations were determined in common foods in the Czech Republic. The determination of the activity concentrations was carried out by a combination of radiochemical separation followed by emanometry, gamma spectrometry, or alpha spectrometry. Between 2020 and 2023, 51 "mixed diet" samples were analyzed for 226Ra and 38 for 228Ra. The average daily intake for adults was 30.8 mBq for 226Ra and 32.9 mBq for 228Ra. The annual committed effective dose for adults from food was 3.15 μSv/y for 226Ra and 8.3 μSv/y for 228Ra, both of which are lower than the doses calculated using the reference activity concentrations from the UNSCEAR (2000) report. Similarly, activity concentrations of 226Ra, 228Ra, 238U, and 234U determined in seven common foodstuffs were lower than UNSCEAR (2000). Additionally, analyses of 210Po in leafy vegetables showed the highest median values in lettuce (62-67 mBq/kg of fresh weight) and the lowest in cabbage (7-14 mBq/kg), both comparable with UNSCEAR reference values.
This article aims to assist authors in presenting good topics correctly when publishing in the field of radioecology in the Radiation Protection Dosimetry (RPD). It is also intended to help reviewers in reviewing and imp...This article aims to assist authors in presenting good topics correctly when publishing in the field of radioecology in the Radiation Protection Dosimetry (RPD). It is also intended to help reviewers in reviewing and improving submitted drafts. The topics covered in this article are based on the experience the authors have gained in recent years as reviewers and co-editors of the RPD. The guidelines in this article aim to improve the quality of submissions and ensure that lower-quality submissions are either significantly improved or withheld. We only address a few typical points here and point out that these editorial comments refer exclusively to the above-mentioned field of radioecology.