Radiologic and nuclear medicine studies in the United States and worldwide: frequency, radiation dose, and comparison with other radiation sources--1950-2007.

The U.S. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements and United Nations Scientific Committee on Effects of Atomic Radiation each conducted respective assessments of all radiation sources in the United States and worldwide.

Exposure reduction through quality assurance for diagnostic x-ray procedures.

Traditional state x-ray inspection programs concentrate on measurement of x-ray machine parameters such as kVp and mAs, timer accuracy, collimation, etc. In 1996, the New Jersey radiation control program began a paradigm shift from the traditional inspection to an outcome-based inspection that concentrated on two indicators of performance: image quality and entrance skin exposure (ESE). Through extensive outreach and involvement of stakeholders, a new approach was designed that placed an emphasis on quality assurance.

Medical radiation exposure in the U.S. in 2006: preliminary results.

Medical radiation exposure of the U.S. population has not been systematically evaluated for almost 25 y.

Nuclear medicine exposure in the United States, 2005-2007: preliminary results.

Medical radiation exposure of the U.S. population has not been systematically evaluated for almost 25 years.

Radiological terrorism.

A radiological terrorist attack on the United States is a possibility. This could involve the dispersal of radioactive material by an attack on a nuclear facility, deployment of a radiation dispersal device, or, less likely, detonation of a nuclear weapon. To decrease our vulnerability to this type of threat, the medical community should have a basic understanding of radiation hazards and their medical management, and it should be prepared to interact with appropriate federal agencies to facilitate the employment of emergency response plans.