Let's talk about radiation dose and radiation protection in children.

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Authors
Granata, Claudio
Sofia, Carmelo
Francavilla, Mariantonietta
Kardos, Marek
Kasznia-Brown, Joanna
Nievelstein, Rutger Aj
Olteanu, Bogdan Stefan
Owens, Catherine
Salerno, Sergio
Sorantin, Erich
Issue Date
2024-08-03
Type
Journal Article
Language
en
Keywords
Child , Diagnostic reference levels , Radiation protection , Radiology
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Alternative Title
Abstract
Children are more sensitive to ionizing radiation than adults. Even though the risk is very low, exposure from radiological examinations can possibly cause them long-term side effects. Recent large epidemiological studies involving children and young adults have added evidence suggesting that even small doses of radiation, such as those from computed tomography scans, might slightly increase the risk of developing cancer later in life. Therefore, even though radiologic studies are essential for an accurate diagnosis and management of various conditions, it is crucial to minimize radiation exposure. This article addresses radiation protection for children in the medical use of ionizing radiation and it is set in the context of the European legislative framework regarding radiation protection. It advocates for a holistic approach to paediatric radiological tests. This approach includes the key principles of radiation protection, such as the justification of imaging procedures supported by referral guidelines, as well as the optimization of techniques (according to the ALARA principle) and effective communication with parents about the benefits and the risks of radiologic procedures. Protecting children from unnecessary radiation is not only a technical challenge, but also a moral obligation and a legal requirement.
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Citation
Granata, C.; Sofia, C.; Francavilla, M.; Kardos, M.; Kasznia-Brown, J.; Nievelstein, R.; Olteanu, BS.; Owens, C.; Salerno, S.; Sorantin, E. and Apine, I. (2024) 'Let's talk about radiation dose and radiation protection in children', Pediatric Radiology. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-024-06009-0
Publisher
Springer Nature
License
© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Journal
Pediatric radiology
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Issue
PubMed ID
ISSN
1432-1998
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