Dr. Türktemiz: "Reducing the Adverse Effects of Ionizing Radiation is Possible"

Dr. Assoc. Prof. Halil Türktemiz, a lecturer from the Medical Imaging Techniques Program at the Health Services Vocational School of Karatay University, affiliated with the Konya Chamber of Commerce (KTO), shared important information about protection methods against the adverse effects of ionizing radiation.

Dr. Assoc. Prof. Halil Türktemiz stated, "Radiation is defined as the emission or transmission of energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles in a vacuum. Radiation is examined in two groups: ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiations can lead to various health problems, such as cell death or damage, permanent DNA disorders, cataracts in the eyes, and the risk of cancer. In medical diagnosis and treatment processes, X-rays and gamma rays, which belong to the ionizing radiation group, are used. Therefore, healthcare professionals working in the field of ionizing radiation need to protect themselves, patients, and their close ones as much as possible from the adverse effects of ionizing radiation."

Türktemiz emphasized the necessity for healthcare professionals working in radiation areas to use protective equipment, stating, "Healthcare professionals in radiation areas should pay attention to the use of protective equipment such as lead shields, lead aprons, thyroid protectors, gonad protectors, and lead glasses. It is important not to keep the patient's relatives waiting in the imaging room to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation. When it is necessary for patient relatives to be present during imaging, they should be provided with protective equipment to minimize exposure to radiation as much as possible."

Highlighting the importance of lifelong protection from radiation since it cannot be perceived by sensory organs, Türktemiz stated, "Being exposed to unnecessary radiation with each imaging procedure or neglecting radiation protection measures increases the likelihood of irreversible health problems. It should be remembered that taking precautions against radiation before health problems arise is cheaper and easier than dealing with them after they occur."