Knowledge of Ionizing Radiation Risks and Radiation Protection Among Radiology Staff in Public Specialized Hospitals in Kabul City: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70194/k1cntw98Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: The average radiation dose from natural sources is approximately 2.4 mSv per year, a considerable share of which is attributable to medical applications of radiation. About 30–50% of medical decision-making is based on radiological examinations. The extensive use of radiation in medical practice necessitates a well-trained, radiation-protection-aware workforce, given the well-established harmful effects of ionizing radiation. This study aims to determine the level of knowledge among radiology staff in public specialized hospitals in Kabul City regarding ionizing radiation and its associated risks.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among 127 radiology staff working in 11 public specialized hospitals in Kabul City, Afghanistan. Data were collected using a structured 25-item multiple-choice questionnaire covering the nature of ionizing radiation, its types, associated risks, and principles of radiation protection. The face and content validity of the questionnaire were assessed and confirmed by experts in nuclear physics from Kabul University and faculty members of the Department of Medical Physics, Kabul University of Medical Sciences “Abu Ali Ibn Sina.” Knowledge was categorized as good/excellent (20–25), moderate (13–19), and low (0–12). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.
Results: This study was conducted among 127 radiology staff members who completed the questionnaire out of 150 distributed questionnaires, usable questionnaire rate of 84.7%. Of the participants, 113 (89%) were male and 14 (11%) were female. The results showed that 13.4% of participants had a low level of knowledge, 81.9% had a moderate level of knowledge, and 4.7% had a good/excellent level of knowledge.
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate a moderate level of knowledge among radiology staff. Considering the importance of protection against ionizing radiation, improving staff knowledge and skills is essential. Regular training in radiobiology, radiation physics, and radiation protection can help enhance performance and reduce risks.
Keywords: Ionizing radiation, radiation protection, knowledge, radiology staff, public specialized hospitals in Kabul City
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