Evaluation the Level of Awareness of Patients Referring to Imaging Centers of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Hospitals about the Ionizing Radiation Risks

Introduction: The undeniable role of medical imaging in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases shows the importance of protection against ionizing radiation used in these methods. Therefore, the aim of the present study is investigating the necessity of increasing patients' awareness of ionizing radiation in minimizing the dose received. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional analytical study with 159 research-made questionnaires, including demographic information and questions about the level of awareness of patients regarding the dangers of ionizing radiation and protection against these radiations, were completed by the patients referring to the radiology departments of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in 2019. Data analysis was done using t-test and one-way analysis of variance under SPSS 16 software. Results: The mean knowledge score of the patients was 35.36% ± 26.07%. Moreover, 91/1% of them stated in their answers that they would like physicians to explain the benefits and risks of these radiations, while only 35.2% of patients were informed by their physicians. Conclusion: According to the results of the completed questionnaires, a low percentage of the patients answered the specialized questions correctly, and according to the individuals' statements, 91/2% stated that they would like to receive information in this regard. Therefore, the need to provide appropriate training to the patients in this field, through the preparation of training brochures, and attracting staff cooperation, to inform patients referring to radiology departments about the risks should be a priority.