Entrance Surface Dose Assessment in Radiography for Adults at Al-Hakim General Hospital, Najaf, Iraq: Study for SDG 3
Abstract
Diagnostic X-ray procedures introduce radiobiological exposure risks requiring dose optimization to protect living tissues. This study evaluated Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) and biological risk burdens during routine adult radiography at Al-Hakim General Hospital, Najaf, Iraq. A cross-sectional radiobiological assessment included 64 adult patients across four anatomical cohorts (n = 16 per group: skull, chest, lumbar spine, pelvis). Exposure parameters (kVp, mAs, SID, FSD) and tube output measured via a calibrated dosimeter were used alongside backscatter factors (BSF) to calculate tissue-level ESD. Results revealed that 50% of skull, 93.75% of chest, 43.75% of lumbar spine, and 100% of pelvis examinations exceeded established Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs). These elevated ESD values demonstrate significant variations in radiobiological dose burdens delivered to sensitive tissues. The findings underscore an urgent need to optimize exposure protocols, enforce quality control, and establish local DRLs to ensure biological safety. This research supports Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Target 3.8) by promoting safe radiation practices
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 64 participants or records.
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