Evaluation of the Knowledge of CT Scan Prescribers on Patients’ Radioprotection in Senegal

Abstract

Medical imaging has enabled major improvements in the medical care of the patient. However, some of these tests have the disadvantage of using ionizing radiation at low doses. Although the CT scan is a powerful diagnostic tool, it remains a highly radiant imaging modality. In addition, the risk of radiation-induced cancer associated with low X-ray doses is established by the American Phase 2 study BEIR VII, and preventive measures require a good level of knowledge on radioprotection by imaging test prescribers. In our study, we evaluated the knowledge of CT scan prescribers in Senegal regarding patient radioprotection. These prescribers consisted of physicians and surgeons without distinction of specialty. Our objective was to have the required data for optimizing CT prescriptions in compliance with the principles of radioprotection. Our work focused on a descriptive analytical study of 107 doctors who prescribed CT scan in public health institutions in Senegal. Our results revealed poor knowledge of doctors prescribing CT scan on induced radio risks, even though the majority of them stated that they took those risks into account. Our data were not isolated, they were applicable to similar studies conducted outside Senegal. In summary, our study led on the one hand to recommendations on initial and continuing training and on the other hand on organizational and regulatory considerations.