Evaluation of Ionizing Radiation in Five Private Radiology Centers in Khuzestan

Abstract

Background: Nowadays ionizing radiation is widely used in medicine, research and industry. In medicine, ionizing radiation is used to diagnose diseases and in high doses to treat diseases such as cancer. Undoubtedly, most exposure to artificial sources is in the field of medical and diagnostic radiology. Therefore, practitioners in the field of diagnostic radiography and patients are exposed to ionizing radiation and its risks. On the other hand, despite the advantages and efficacy of diagnostic radiation in the medical field, overall less attention is paid to optimizing and controlling protection in medical radiation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the background ionizing radiation in Ahwaz diagnostic radiography centers. Methods: Ionization radiation levels were measured in and out of each center using gamma spectroscopy (Radiation Alert Inspector-EXP 15109) at a, b, c, d and e radiographic centers within one meter above the Earth's surface. Radiation levels within each center were measured at four locations (outside of center, secretary desk, and patient waiting room and behind the radiology room) both in X-ray machine operating and non-operating condition. The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS software.  Results: The inside ionization radiation dose in a, b, c, d and e radiographic centers were 0.121, 0.119, 0.126, 0132 and 0.128 μSv/h respectively. The outside ionization radiation dose in a, b, c, d and e radiographic centers were 0.094, 0.092, 0.093, 0.112 and 0.101 μSv/h respectively. Equivalent annual dose within and outside selected radiology centers were lower than the threshold (1 mSv / year). Conclusion: The results show that the ionizing radiation dose of the X-ray equipment examined in the radiology centers of Ahwaz is lower than the global standard.