Medical-related radiation is the largest source of controllable radiation exposure to humans
and it accounts for more than 95% of radiation exposure from man-made sources. Its direct
benefits in modern day medical practices are beyond doubt but risks-benefits ratios need to
be constantly monitored as the use of ionizing radiation is increasing rapidly. From 1980 to
2006, the per-capita effective dose from diagnostic and interventional medical procedures in
the United States increased almost six fold, from 0.5 to 3.0mSv, while contributions from
other sources remained static (NCRP report no 160, 2009).
This chapter will review radiation exposure from medical imaging initially starting from a
historical viewpoint as well as discussing innovative technologies on the horizon. The
challenges for the medical community in addressing the increasing trend of radiation
usage will be discussed as well as the latest research in dose justification and
optimization.link_to_OA_fulltex
