An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cur(i)e.

Abstract

The following material is in this sense a “preventative” topic, in the spirit of early and anticipatory efforts rather than greater investments once situations arise. The axiom is from The Philadelphia Gazette in 1734 and under the pseudonym of A.A. but attributed to Benjamin Franklin [ 1 Franklin B. On protection of towns from fire. Pennsylvania Gazette; 1734. https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Franklin/01-02-02-0002Date accessed: March 24, 2022 Google Scholar ]. Unlike the common current application of this saying to general medical care, Franklin was in fact addressing local fire safety. Although the juxtaposition of the words “fire” and “radiation” in generalizing this axiom is alarming (the only intended pun), the early investment and longer-term benefits are relevant to both. The “pound of cure” can be represented by many of the current efforts at radiation safety including technical improvements in equipment, protocol modifications, adherence to appropriateness, advances in measures and benchmarks for radiation dose estimates, and enhanced understanding through education and awareness. Examples of this last effort include the Image Gently® and Image Wisely® organizations as recognized promoters among many global professional societies and organizations. And although the success of such efforts is difficult to determine beyond attribution [ 2 Frush D.P. Sorantin E. Radiation use in diagnostic imaging in children: approaching the value of the pediatric radiology community. Pediatr Radiol. 2021; 51: 532-543 Crossref PubMed Scopus (6) Google Scholar ], the “ounce of prevention” of early exposure, namely early medical education, on the informed use of medical imaging, especially regarding radiation doses, risks, and associated risk dialogues, embraces the conviction that the benefits down the line will be evident and amplified.