English abstract
Medical imaging using X-rays is like a double-edged sword. On the one side, we cannot do without it because of its enormous benefit in medical diagnosis, but on the other side, we risk exposing ourselves to potentially harmful low-dose radiation. Typically, two-thirds of all medical imaging procedures involve the use of ionising radiation, either X-rays in diagnostic radiology or gamma rays in nuclear medicine. Thus there is an urgent need to educate medical staff on the appropriate utility of this diagnostic tool, and for the creation of a regulatory body controlling and monitoring its use. This is of particular urgency in Oman. What we need in Oman now is education of medical doctors on the dangers of medical imaging that utilises ionising radiation, in particular CT scanning and cardiac catheterisation studies. We also need continuing medical education on the appropriate criteria and clinical indications for the uses of these diagnostic tools. Most importantly, and perhaps of great urgency, is the creation of an independent regulatory body to regulate the safe use of ionising regulation in medicine and otherwise. This governmental body needs to be free of the control of any ministry, and has to have authority to license the use of radioactive materials and of X-ray-producing equipment, as well as regulatory control over the education of staff handling both low and higher dose radiation sources in medicine and elsewhere. We need to respect and control lowdose radiation to safeguard ourselves and our future generations.
