Rahul P Kotian

Perception of Radiation Awareness among Patients in South Indian population- A Qualitative Study

Increasing concern has recently been expressed in the literature that the patients undergoing diagnostic Computer tomography imaging and X-ray examinations have inadequate knowledge and awareness about ra- diation. The frequent use of Computed tomography and routine X-ray examinations for unnecessary indications is the most vital cause of increase in medical radiation exposure. Dose reduction techniques and radiation protection measures is a topic of public concern in which government should play a very important role. Radiologists and patients undergoing any radiological procedure involving ionizing radiation are becoming highly sensitized to the issue of radiation exposure from these diagnostic procedures. The attitudes and perceptions of these patients undergoing diagnostic imaging procedures that use ionizing radiation vary widely. Patients percep- tion about radiation awareness strongly influence their consent or acceptance of any diagnostic imaging procedure. In this study we review the perceptions of radiation risk by laypersons i.e patients who have very little knowledge and awareness about the diagnostic procedure and X-ray examination for which they have been referred. Although the benefit vs risk ratio will outweigh the radiation risk involved in these X-ray and CT examinations but the patients awareness about radiation is a major concern in todays society. Need of the study : The purpose of this study is to understand the perception of radiation awareness among patients in the South Indian population. Very less Qualitative research work has been taken up in this field, as a result such study will gain impetus in the near future. Methods : The study was carried out in South India. Qualitative case study was conducted based on Non-Probability purposive sam- pling and in-depth interview was conducted at the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal among six patients who were referred for X-ray and CT examinations. Results : An in-depth interview among patients in South India revealed their poor perception about radiation awareness. Conclusion : This study has clearly demonstrated the poor awareness of radiation among patients in South India.