Physicians’ knowledge about ionizing radiation and radiological imaging techniques: a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Radiological examinations are critical for the evaluation of many disorders in daily practice. To determine the knowledge of ionizing radiation and radiological imaging techniques among physicians of various grades. A cross-sectional survey was carried out of 55 physicians with a mean age of 35.7 ± 6.0 years (age range 25-52 years) in a university hospital. A questionnaire which tested physicians' information about ionizing radiation and their risks was distributed by medical school students. Among the participants, 32 (58.2%) were consultants and 23 (41.8%) were residents. The mean score was 68.2 ± 11.1 (range 37.8-91.8) out of 100. Consultants' points were lower than residents (p = 0.040). Consultants had significantly higher frequency of incorrect answer than residents in the question about 'whether CT scan increases lifetime cancer risk' (p = 0.036). Medical practices in years do not enhance the level of the awareness regarding the ionizing radiation.