It is now well known that in radiation therapy, high doses are given to the affected tissues/organs so as to kill the diseased tissues. It is expected that the physician decides and optimizes the dose requirement in consultation with a radiation physicist to ensure radiation protection of the patient. A recent report on the above topic in the Times of India is a matter of grave concern. During medical procedures in US, three patients were given over doses which resulted in organ failures crippling the patients.
Highly collimated radiation beams are used to treat tiny tumors in sensitive organs such as brain or in spinal cord. The collimated beam ensures protection of healthy surrounding tissues. However, any malfunctioning of the system, mismatch of electronic components and improper use of the equipments used in medical diagnosis (X-rays and CT scans) and external radiation beam therapy sources (medical accelerators and Co-60 sources) may result in leakage of the radiation and exposure of other healthy tissues which may ultimately result in long- term severe health problems.
Stringent regulations and quality assurance programs are absolutely necessary for the protection of the patients. The medical and paramedical staff should be well trained in all aspects of radiation protection. Medical procedures involving radiation should be recommended only if the benefits outweigh risks of the radiation exposure.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Exposure to EMF radiations from mobile phones and towers
The health effect Electro-Magnetic Frequency (EMF) radiation from the towers/mobile phones is of great concern. As reported, the probability of health effects is about 5 times higher in case of children and teenagers. Pregnant women should also be protected from the exposures so that the fetus is not exposed.
It is reported that about 50% of Indian population are using mobile phones! There are several thousands of transmission towers mushrooming all over the country. The convenience of mobile phone in passing on messages is undisputed. But it is over-used and unregulated. That is the concern.
Since last three years, I have been fighting a lone battle to create public awareness about the issue. I have written many posts in my blog site http://radsafe.blogspot.com. I also have written a 11 page write-up on the safety concerns and protection standards for EMF radiation in my web site www.radsafetyinfo.com. As a radiation protection professional, in my anxiety to sensitize the authorities, I have written letters to Municipal Commissioners of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, Mayer of Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra Health Minister highlighting the public health concerns due to the EM radiation pollution and the possible health effects from the excessive usage of mobile phones, and exposure to EMF radiation from the towers. I have copies of the communications.
I doubt whether India has a separate regulator to ensure safety from the EMF radiation exposures. It was suggested that BARC/AERB should start monitoring the EMF density in different locations to ensure see compliance with the available international standards.
Somehow, nothing happened. I felt at that time that the telecom lobby is too strong and it is very difficult to make the government take action on the issue. However, about 6 month's back, Maharashtra Government has formed a committee to look into the matter. It is heartening to note that the newspapers like Times of India and Mumbai Mirror have started realizing the impending public health disaster from excessive usage of mobile phones and EMF emissions from the towers. It is already late. Better late than never.
It is reported that about 50% of Indian population are using mobile phones! There are several thousands of transmission towers mushrooming all over the country. The convenience of mobile phone in passing on messages is undisputed. But it is over-used and unregulated. That is the concern.
Since last three years, I have been fighting a lone battle to create public awareness about the issue. I have written many posts in my blog site http://radsafe.blogspot.com. I also have written a 11 page write-up on the safety concerns and protection standards for EMF radiation in my web site www.radsafetyinfo.com. As a radiation protection professional, in my anxiety to sensitize the authorities, I have written letters to Municipal Commissioners of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, Mayer of Navi Mumbai and Maharashtra Health Minister highlighting the public health concerns due to the EM radiation pollution and the possible health effects from the excessive usage of mobile phones, and exposure to EMF radiation from the towers. I have copies of the communications.
I doubt whether India has a separate regulator to ensure safety from the EMF radiation exposures. It was suggested that BARC/AERB should start monitoring the EMF density in different locations to ensure see compliance with the available international standards.
Somehow, nothing happened. I felt at that time that the telecom lobby is too strong and it is very difficult to make the government take action on the issue. However, about 6 month's back, Maharashtra Government has formed a committee to look into the matter. It is heartening to note that the newspapers like Times of India and Mumbai Mirror have started realizing the impending public health disaster from excessive usage of mobile phones and EMF emissions from the towers. It is already late. Better late than never.
Monday, November 22, 2010
The International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES): 20 Years of Nuclear Communication
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES). The scale has sound technical background.
Jointly developed by the IAEA and the NEA in 1990, in the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident, the INES is to help nuclear and radiation safety authorities and the nuclear industry worldwide to rate nuclear and radiological events and to communicate their safety significance to the general public, the media and the technical community. The INES was initially used to classify events at nuclear power plants only. It was subsequently extended to rate events occurring in any nuclear facility and during the transport and storage of radioactive material and covers events related to the overexposure of workers.
Since its inception, it has been adopted in 69 countries, and an increasing number of countries have expressed their interest in using INES. Over the years, national nuclear safety authorities have made growing use of INES, while the public and the media have become more familiar with the scale and its significance.
Jointly developed by the IAEA and the NEA in 1990, in the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident, the INES is to help nuclear and radiation safety authorities and the nuclear industry worldwide to rate nuclear and radiological events and to communicate their safety significance to the general public, the media and the technical community. The INES was initially used to classify events at nuclear power plants only. It was subsequently extended to rate events occurring in any nuclear facility and during the transport and storage of radioactive material and covers events related to the overexposure of workers.
Since its inception, it has been adopted in 69 countries, and an increasing number of countries have expressed their interest in using INES. Over the years, national nuclear safety authorities have made growing use of INES, while the public and the media have become more familiar with the scale and its significance.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Irradiation to Ensure the Safety and Quality of Prepared Meals
This publication (STI/PUB/1365, 375 pp. Date of Issue: 8 April 2009) presents the results of an FAO/IAEA coordinated research project (CRP) on the use of irradiation to ensure the safety and quality of pre-prepared foods. There is an increasing worldwide demand for pre-prepared and take-away meals. However, the traditional methods of preparing convenience foods via retort-processing and freezing are being replaced in favour of chilled foods, due mainly to their fresher and often more appealing appearance. Chilled prepared foods, however, are non-sterile and their heightened potential for microbiological contamination creates a considerable limitation to their shelf-life. The findings of this CRP demonstrate that radiation processing of pre-prepared meals results in a safer product by eliminating existing pathogens, and thereby reducing health risks while extending the foods’ commercial shelf-life.
This publication presents the findings of the CRP and offers a discussion of the possible further utilization and marketing of this new application of irradiation technology (IAEA News)
This publication presents the findings of the CRP and offers a discussion of the possible further utilization and marketing of this new application of irradiation technology (IAEA News)
Monday, November 15, 2010
FDA Unveils Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Radiation Exposure from Medical Imaging
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced an initiative to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure from three types of medical imaging procedures: computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine studies, and fluoroscopy. These procedures are the greatest contributors to total radiation exposure within the U.S. population and use much higher radiation doses than other radiographic procedures, such as standard X-rays, dental X-rays, and mammography.
These types of imaging exams expose patients to ionizing radiation, a type of radiation that can increase a person’s lifetime cancer risk. Accidental exposure to very high amounts of radiation also can cause injuries, such as skin burns, hair loss and cataracts. Health care decisions made by patients and their physicians should include discussions of the medical need and associated risks for each procedure.
While there is some disagreement over the extent of the cancer risk associated with exposure to radiation from medical imaging, there is broad agreement that steps can and should be taken to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure. For example, the radiation dose associated with a CT abdomen scan is the same as the dose from approximately 400 chest X-rays. In comparison, a dental X-ray calls for approximately one-half the radiation dose of a chest X-ray. Both diagnostics serve important, sometimes critical, public health needs.
Through the FDA’s regulatory oversight of medical imaging devices, such as CT scanners, and through collaboration with other federal agencies and health care professional groups, the FDA is advocating the adoption of two principles of radiation protection: appropriate justification of the radiation procedure and optimization of the radiation dose used during each procedure. The three-pronged initiative the FDA is announcing is expected to promote the safe use of medical imaging devices, support informed clinical decision-making, and increase patient awareness of their own exposure.
The FDA recommends that health care professional organizations continue to develop, in collaboration with the agency, diagnostic radiation reference levels for medical imaging procedures, and increase efforts to develop one or more national registries for radiation doses. Quality assurance practices into the mandatory accreditation and conditions of participation survey processes for imaging facilities and hospitals. In a bid to empower patients and increase awareness, the FDA is collaborating with other organizations to develop and disseminate a patient medical imaging history card. This tool, which will be available on the FDA’s Web site, will allow patients to track their own medical imaging history and share it with their physicians, especially when it may not be included in their medical records (FDA NEWS RELEASE).
These types of imaging exams expose patients to ionizing radiation, a type of radiation that can increase a person’s lifetime cancer risk. Accidental exposure to very high amounts of radiation also can cause injuries, such as skin burns, hair loss and cataracts. Health care decisions made by patients and their physicians should include discussions of the medical need and associated risks for each procedure.
While there is some disagreement over the extent of the cancer risk associated with exposure to radiation from medical imaging, there is broad agreement that steps can and should be taken to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure. For example, the radiation dose associated with a CT abdomen scan is the same as the dose from approximately 400 chest X-rays. In comparison, a dental X-ray calls for approximately one-half the radiation dose of a chest X-ray. Both diagnostics serve important, sometimes critical, public health needs.
Through the FDA’s regulatory oversight of medical imaging devices, such as CT scanners, and through collaboration with other federal agencies and health care professional groups, the FDA is advocating the adoption of two principles of radiation protection: appropriate justification of the radiation procedure and optimization of the radiation dose used during each procedure. The three-pronged initiative the FDA is announcing is expected to promote the safe use of medical imaging devices, support informed clinical decision-making, and increase patient awareness of their own exposure.
The FDA recommends that health care professional organizations continue to develop, in collaboration with the agency, diagnostic radiation reference levels for medical imaging procedures, and increase efforts to develop one or more national registries for radiation doses. Quality assurance practices into the mandatory accreditation and conditions of participation survey processes for imaging facilities and hospitals. In a bid to empower patients and increase awareness, the FDA is collaborating with other organizations to develop and disseminate a patient medical imaging history card. This tool, which will be available on the FDA’s Web site, will allow patients to track their own medical imaging history and share it with their physicians, especially when it may not be included in their medical records (FDA NEWS RELEASE).
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Training requirements in radiological and nuclear safety
Education and training are indispensable to the development of human resources in industries around the world. Nuclear industries promote the safe use of nuclear technologies for peaceful applications in various fields, in medicine, industry and agriculture. Medical applications and radiation processing of products (food stuff, medical supplies, synthetic and rubber items, cables, etc) have seen tremendous growth. This is in addition to the on-going growth, world wide, in nuclear power generation. Different categories of man power, such as scientists, engineers, biologists, technical, semi-technical and labor are required for the safe operations of the facilities and the activities. Unlike other industries, due to the radioactive nature of the activities, there is potential for radiation exposures, which can be harmful if not controlled.
Thus, for the safe conduct of these applications, the man power required should be suitably educated and trained in the fields of nuclear and radiological safety. This is the mandatory requirement as per the regulations covering all the activities involving radiation and radioisotopes. The fields of nuclear and radiation safety are multi-disciplinary in nature, comprising of inter-related parts of nuclear physics, chemistry, biology, statistics and other specialized areas.
To meet these requirements, there is tremendous scope for private agencies, universities and scientific associations to develop nuclear industry-specific human resources which are trained / educated in nuclear and radiation safety. The national regulators should take proactive steps in this direction.
Thus, for the safe conduct of these applications, the man power required should be suitably educated and trained in the fields of nuclear and radiological safety. This is the mandatory requirement as per the regulations covering all the activities involving radiation and radioisotopes. The fields of nuclear and radiation safety are multi-disciplinary in nature, comprising of inter-related parts of nuclear physics, chemistry, biology, statistics and other specialized areas.
To meet these requirements, there is tremendous scope for private agencies, universities and scientific associations to develop nuclear industry-specific human resources which are trained / educated in nuclear and radiation safety. The national regulators should take proactive steps in this direction.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Preventing Accidental Exposures from New External Beam Radiation Therapy Technologies
ICRP Publication 112; Ann. ICRP 39 (4), 2009
Disseminating the knowledge and lessons learned from accidental exposures is crucial in preventing re-occurrence. This is particularly important in radiation therapy; the only application of radiation in which very high radiation doses are deliberately given to patients to achieve cure or palliation of disease. This ICRP report is expected to be a valuable resource for radiation oncologists, hospital administrators, medical physicists, technologists, dosimetrists, maintenance engineers, radiation safety specialists, and regulators. While the report applies specifically to new external beam therapies, the general principles for prevention are applicable to the broad range of radiotherapy practices where mistakes could result in serious consequences for the patient and practitioner (ICRP News)
Disseminating the knowledge and lessons learned from accidental exposures is crucial in preventing re-occurrence. This is particularly important in radiation therapy; the only application of radiation in which very high radiation doses are deliberately given to patients to achieve cure or palliation of disease. This ICRP report is expected to be a valuable resource for radiation oncologists, hospital administrators, medical physicists, technologists, dosimetrists, maintenance engineers, radiation safety specialists, and regulators. While the report applies specifically to new external beam therapies, the general principles for prevention are applicable to the broad range of radiotherapy practices where mistakes could result in serious consequences for the patient and practitioner (ICRP News)
Friday, October 8, 2010
ICRP SYMPOSIUM ON THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), that issues recommendations on protection against ionizing radiation, will hold its first ICRP Symposium on the International System of Radiological Protection during October 24-26, 2011, at Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center North Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
With participation from North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia, this symposium will be of interest to everyone in the field of radiological protection. Participants will learn not only about how the System operates, but also its ethical foundations, the logic behind it, and how it has been applied in practical situations.
The opening plenary session will provide useful information on the System of Radiological Protection, and insight into the ongoing work of ICRP in relation to other key organisations in radiological protection. Other sessions will cover topical issues such as: protection against radon in homes and workplaces; protection of medical patients; environmental protection; and radiological protection related to security screening. Presentations will be made by ICRP Main Commission and Committee members, senior members of other international organizations, and officials and industry representatives from around the world.
It is reported that this symposium is made possible in part through support from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the US Environmental Protection Agency. For details contact Christopher Clement, ICRP Scientific Secretary, at: sci.sec@icrp.org (IAEA News).
With participation from North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia, this symposium will be of interest to everyone in the field of radiological protection. Participants will learn not only about how the System operates, but also its ethical foundations, the logic behind it, and how it has been applied in practical situations.
The opening plenary session will provide useful information on the System of Radiological Protection, and insight into the ongoing work of ICRP in relation to other key organisations in radiological protection. Other sessions will cover topical issues such as: protection against radon in homes and workplaces; protection of medical patients; environmental protection; and radiological protection related to security screening. Presentations will be made by ICRP Main Commission and Committee members, senior members of other international organizations, and officials and industry representatives from around the world.
It is reported that this symposium is made possible in part through support from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the US Environmental Protection Agency. For details contact Christopher Clement, ICRP Scientific Secretary, at: sci.sec@icrp.org (IAEA News).
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Cancer in Developing Countries
The 2010 IAEA Scientific Forum was devoted to cancer in developing countries. The IAEA could secure the participation of so many top cancer specialists, scientists and experts from all over the world, as well as distinguished representatives from government, the private sector and leading foundations.
During his first year in office, the Director General of the IAEA visited cancer treatment centres in a number of Member States. He admired very highly about the world-class being offered in many developing countries. Some countries like Korea have also donated funds to the IAEA’s Cancer Programme. Since 1980, the IAEA has delivered over $220 million worth of cancer-related assistance to developing countries. The IAEA´s expertise lies in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, radiology and medical radiation physics. It is reported that the IAEA provide equipment and training, deliver know-how and technical support and help developing countries establish cancer control policies and centres.
He said that the cancer represents an imminent crisis for developing countries. Most new cancer cases and cancer deaths already occur in the developing world. Around 70 percent of cancers in developing countries are diagnosed too late for life-saving treatment. By 2030, over 13 million people worldwide will die from cancer every year. Almost 9 million of these deaths will be in developing countries. In many low-income countries, there is not a single radiation therapy machine. More than 80% of Africa´s one billion inhabitants still have no access to basic radiotherapy and related cancer services. Millions of people who could be successfully treated die every year.
The message at the forum was very clear: There is a great need work together, to share experiences, expertise and knowledge with each other and to pool resources to ensure that cancer patients in developing countries gain access to the best modern treatment and care (IAEA News).
During his first year in office, the Director General of the IAEA visited cancer treatment centres in a number of Member States. He admired very highly about the world-class being offered in many developing countries. Some countries like Korea have also donated funds to the IAEA’s Cancer Programme. Since 1980, the IAEA has delivered over $220 million worth of cancer-related assistance to developing countries. The IAEA´s expertise lies in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, radiology and medical radiation physics. It is reported that the IAEA provide equipment and training, deliver know-how and technical support and help developing countries establish cancer control policies and centres.
He said that the cancer represents an imminent crisis for developing countries. Most new cancer cases and cancer deaths already occur in the developing world. Around 70 percent of cancers in developing countries are diagnosed too late for life-saving treatment. By 2030, over 13 million people worldwide will die from cancer every year. Almost 9 million of these deaths will be in developing countries. In many low-income countries, there is not a single radiation therapy machine. More than 80% of Africa´s one billion inhabitants still have no access to basic radiotherapy and related cancer services. Millions of people who could be successfully treated die every year.
The message at the forum was very clear: There is a great need work together, to share experiences, expertise and knowledge with each other and to pool resources to ensure that cancer patients in developing countries gain access to the best modern treatment and care (IAEA News).
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Lung cancer risk from radon and progeny – ICRP Draft report for consultation
Subsequent to the publication of Statement on Radon, the ICRP has brought out a draft report on Lung Cancer Risk from Radon and Progeny. Now, both of these are on the ICRP site and the ICRP is seeking feedback on these. As reported, the last date for receiving comments is September 30, 2010.
The report reviews recent epidemiological studies of lung cancer risk linked to exposure to radon and its progeny. It concentrates on the results from pooled case-control studies of residential exposures and cohorts of underground miners exposed to low levels of radon and radon progeny. Consistent with the approach used in ICRP Publication 65 (1993), recent miner data are used to recommend a revised detriment-adjusted nominal risk coefficient of 5x10-4 per WLM replacing the ICRP Publication 65 value of 2.8x10-4 per WLM.
The pooled analyses of epidemiological studies of lung cancer risk from residential exposures demonstrate a statistically significant increase per unit of exposure below average annual concentrations of about 200 Bq per cubic meter.
For occupational protection purposes and for compliance with the dose limits and constraints, ICRP proposes to treat radon and radon progeny in the same way as other radionuclides and will publish dose coefficients calculated using dosimetric models for use within the ICRP system of protection.
The report reviews recent epidemiological studies of lung cancer risk linked to exposure to radon and its progeny. It concentrates on the results from pooled case-control studies of residential exposures and cohorts of underground miners exposed to low levels of radon and radon progeny. Consistent with the approach used in ICRP Publication 65 (1993), recent miner data are used to recommend a revised detriment-adjusted nominal risk coefficient of 5x10-4 per WLM replacing the ICRP Publication 65 value of 2.8x10-4 per WLM.
The pooled analyses of epidemiological studies of lung cancer risk from residential exposures demonstrate a statistically significant increase per unit of exposure below average annual concentrations of about 200 Bq per cubic meter.
For occupational protection purposes and for compliance with the dose limits and constraints, ICRP proposes to treat radon and radon progeny in the same way as other radionuclides and will publish dose coefficients calculated using dosimetric models for use within the ICRP system of protection.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Environmental Protection: Transfer parameters for Reference Animals and Plants
The ICRP has prepared a draft report on the above much needed topic. The report is put up in the ICRP website requesting comments from individuals and groups. The last date is October 1, 2010.
The approach followed by the Commission to environmental protection uses the concept of a limited set of Reference Animals and Plants as a basis for relating exposure to dose, and dose to radiation effects, for different types of animals and plants in an internally consistent manner.
A set of Dose Conversion Factors is derived for the Reference Animals and Plants, to enable dose rates to be calculated when the concentrations of radionuclides within these organisms have been established by direct measurement. The resultant dose rates can then be compared with evaluations of the effects of dose rates on the different Reference Animals and Plants. These data have been compiled in such a way that Derived Consideration Reference Levels can then be established, each of which constitutes a band of dose rates for each Reference Animal and Plant within which there is likely to be some chance of deleterious effects occurring in individuals of that type of animal or plant. Site specific data on Representative Organisms can then be compared with such values and used as a basis for decision making.
An enormous data base has been brought together and used to provide the most up to date data available.
The approach followed by the Commission to environmental protection uses the concept of a limited set of Reference Animals and Plants as a basis for relating exposure to dose, and dose to radiation effects, for different types of animals and plants in an internally consistent manner.
A set of Dose Conversion Factors is derived for the Reference Animals and Plants, to enable dose rates to be calculated when the concentrations of radionuclides within these organisms have been established by direct measurement. The resultant dose rates can then be compared with evaluations of the effects of dose rates on the different Reference Animals and Plants. These data have been compiled in such a way that Derived Consideration Reference Levels can then be established, each of which constitutes a band of dose rates for each Reference Animal and Plant within which there is likely to be some chance of deleterious effects occurring in individuals of that type of animal or plant. Site specific data on Representative Organisms can then be compared with such values and used as a basis for decision making.
An enormous data base has been brought together and used to provide the most up to date data available.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Whole-body scanners at airports
Airports, world –over will be using full-body scanners to foil possible terror attempts in flights. The United States has tested 40 whole-body scanners as part of a pilot program. These machines - millimeter wavelength imaging and backscatter X-ray scanners, will be used to see under clothes and identify unusual objects. Skin is the likely target organ for the radiation from such body scanners.
It is possible that the radiations may not be penetrating-type and hence risk may be low However, large numbers of people around the world would be exposed to a small risk which may ultimately lead to major public health concern over log time. The exposure from such scanners will be considerable for the air crew and frequent fliers.
It is known that there is no threshold dose that could be considered as risk free to an individual's health, particularly for induction of cancer. As per the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, mass scanning of public using radiation is not justified by any means. If any exposure to radiation can be avoided, it should be avoided.
Members of the public already exposed to low-level radiation from various sources, such as medical X-rays, cosmic radiation during flights at high altitudes, EMF radiation from cellphones, micro-wave radiation from ovens, TV sets, etc, etc. It is time that research should be focused on developing systems which will not expose members of the public to radiations.
Countries should not just rush to install such machines without proper study with respect to its social concerns of intruding into the privacy of passengers; radiation exposure issues; regulatory aspects, ensuring proper maintenance, particularly calibration of the systems so that no member of the public will be exposed to higher levels of radiation at any time.
It is possible that the radiations may not be penetrating-type and hence risk may be low However, large numbers of people around the world would be exposed to a small risk which may ultimately lead to major public health concern over log time. The exposure from such scanners will be considerable for the air crew and frequent fliers.
It is known that there is no threshold dose that could be considered as risk free to an individual's health, particularly for induction of cancer. As per the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, mass scanning of public using radiation is not justified by any means. If any exposure to radiation can be avoided, it should be avoided.
Members of the public already exposed to low-level radiation from various sources, such as medical X-rays, cosmic radiation during flights at high altitudes, EMF radiation from cellphones, micro-wave radiation from ovens, TV sets, etc, etc. It is time that research should be focused on developing systems which will not expose members of the public to radiations.
Countries should not just rush to install such machines without proper study with respect to its social concerns of intruding into the privacy of passengers; radiation exposure issues; regulatory aspects, ensuring proper maintenance, particularly calibration of the systems so that no member of the public will be exposed to higher levels of radiation at any time.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Radiation from Mobile towers and cellphones
Members of the public have been sensitized on the possible harmful effects of EMF radiation being emitted by the mobile phones and the radiation being transmitted by the towers, by the responsible newspapers like Mumbai Mirror, The Times of India and The Times of Navi Mumbai. There are sites and blogs (www.radsafetyinfo.com; radsafe.blogspot.com) which also highlight the issue time and again. Now, things started moving. This is going to be a major public health concern, globally. In a US city, San Francisco, for the first time anywhere, it is mandated that the cellphone manufacturers post information about the amount of radio waves absorbed – specific absorption rate (SAR value) - into the cellphone user’s body touching the mobiles. There are international limits (1.6 watts per kg) on the SAR value for checking compliance. A good move indeed. All countries should follow this practice.
The gravity of the situation can be judged by the fact that every mobile service provider has over 75,000 towers erected in different parts of the country. Possibly, equal umbers of unauthorized towers exist over buildings, bridges and streetlight poles. Residential buildings are also not spared. In a small township like Navi Mumbai there are 451 an-authorized towers (as per the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation report). This is in addition to the authorized towers.
In view of the seriousness of the issue, there is a need of mass sensitization about the radiation and radiation hazards from the long-term mobile usage, followed by a law and regulation to control the avoidable exposure of the unsuspecting public to radiation from mobile towers/cellphones.
The gravity of the situation can be judged by the fact that every mobile service provider has over 75,000 towers erected in different parts of the country. Possibly, equal umbers of unauthorized towers exist over buildings, bridges and streetlight poles. Residential buildings are also not spared. In a small township like Navi Mumbai there are 451 an-authorized towers (as per the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation report). This is in addition to the authorized towers.
In view of the seriousness of the issue, there is a need of mass sensitization about the radiation and radiation hazards from the long-term mobile usage, followed by a law and regulation to control the avoidable exposure of the unsuspecting public to radiation from mobile towers/cellphones.
Monday, June 14, 2010
ICRP’S New Draft Report of the Task Group for Consultation: Radiological Protection Education and Training for Healthcare Staff and Students
The number of diagnostic and interventional medical procedures using ionising radiations is rising, and procedures resulting in higher patient and staff doses are being performed more frequently. The need for education and training of medical staff, medical students, and other healthcare professionals in the principles of radiation protection is therefore now even more compelling that in the past.
The present publication expands considerably on the basic recommendations provided for education and training in publications, ICRP-103 and 105 with regard to various categories of medical practitioners, and other healthcare professionals that perform or provide support for diagnostic and interventional procedures utilising ionizing radiation. It provides guidance regarding the necessary radiological protection education and training for use by:
In the context of this publication, the term education refers to imparting knowledge and understanding on the topics of radiation health effects, radiation quantities and units, principles of radiological protection, radiological protection legislation and the factors in practice that affect patient and staff doses. Such education should be part of the curriculum in pursuit of medical, dental and other healthcare degrees, and for specialists such as radiologists, medical physicists and radiographers as part of the curriculum of postgraduate degrees.
The term training refers to providing instruction with regard to radiological protection for the justified application of the specific ionizing radiation modalities (e.g. CT, fluoroscopy) that a medical practitioner or other healthcare or support professional will utilize in that individual’s role during medical practice. Advice is also provided on the accreditation and certification of the recommended education and training.
Last date for submitting comments is August 6, 2010 (Ref. www.icrp.org)
The present publication expands considerably on the basic recommendations provided for education and training in publications, ICRP-103 and 105 with regard to various categories of medical practitioners, and other healthcare professionals that perform or provide support for diagnostic and interventional procedures utilising ionizing radiation. It provides guidance regarding the necessary radiological protection education and training for use by:
In the context of this publication, the term education refers to imparting knowledge and understanding on the topics of radiation health effects, radiation quantities and units, principles of radiological protection, radiological protection legislation and the factors in practice that affect patient and staff doses. Such education should be part of the curriculum in pursuit of medical, dental and other healthcare degrees, and for specialists such as radiologists, medical physicists and radiographers as part of the curriculum of postgraduate degrees.
The term training refers to providing instruction with regard to radiological protection for the justified application of the specific ionizing radiation modalities (e.g. CT, fluoroscopy) that a medical practitioner or other healthcare or support professional will utilize in that individual’s role during medical practice. Advice is also provided on the accreditation and certification of the recommended education and training.
Last date for submitting comments is August 6, 2010 (Ref. www.icrp.org)
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Mumbai mirror for cellphone user’s safety
The Mumbai Mirror, an Indian daily has been continuously publishing posts/reports highlighting the exposures from mobile towers and asking for regulation on the installation of towers and control on usage of mobile phones by children and others. The latest report published in the Mumbai Mirror (May 18, 2010) says that “half an hour of cellphone use a day increases brain cancer risk”. The study was undertaken by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The research findings are as expected. None of the mobile manufactures or the service providers seem to be bothered about the health effects which are being only confirmed over time by research. According to International Communication Union, there were estimated 4.6 billion phone subscriptions at the end of last year! This is becoming a global problem which needs urgent intervention by the countries world-over.
The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection has recommended the relevant safety standards which are accepted internationally. Why not enforce the standards? Governments should respect the public concerns and give clear instructions to all concerned without unduly inducing radiophobia towards radiation.
The research findings are as expected. None of the mobile manufactures or the service providers seem to be bothered about the health effects which are being only confirmed over time by research. According to International Communication Union, there were estimated 4.6 billion phone subscriptions at the end of last year! This is becoming a global problem which needs urgent intervention by the countries world-over.
The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection has recommended the relevant safety standards which are accepted internationally. Why not enforce the standards? Governments should respect the public concerns and give clear instructions to all concerned without unduly inducing radiophobia towards radiation.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
All missing Cobalt-60 pencils recovered
It is reported that the BARC expert team has recovered all the cobalt pencils from the scrap yard at Mayapuri, Delhi, after a month of exposure of eight people to the gamma radiation from the Cobalt-60 source. The sources were inside the Gamma Cell which was sold (as junk sale) by the Delhi University and was dismantled by the scrap dealer. It is reported, however, that there were 48 slots inside the Gamma Cell for keeping the pencils. Only 16 pencils are recovered. What about other pencils? Dummy pencils?
The incident was reported to the International Atomic energy Agency and the agency after though investigation will assign severity level for the incident. The level may be probably 3 or 4. The International Nuclear Event Scale (INES) is made up of 7 levels of increasing severity; 3 incident-levels and 4 accident-levels.
There are issues to be resolved by the concerned authorities:
1. Common man wants to know the action taken against the persons responsible for such an event. This is a criminally careless action. The action should severe enough to serve as a warning to others.
2. Investigation should be ordered to check/confirm whether such so-called decayed sources are still available in other institutes. India Government should ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
3. Proper inventory of all sources lying in research institutes and in industrial units should be made by the national regulator, AERB on Cradle to Grave basis.
4. The government should publish full report on the incident and all information/actions taken should be made transparent.
The incident was reported to the International Atomic energy Agency and the agency after though investigation will assign severity level for the incident. The level may be probably 3 or 4. The International Nuclear Event Scale (INES) is made up of 7 levels of increasing severity; 3 incident-levels and 4 accident-levels.
There are issues to be resolved by the concerned authorities:
1. Common man wants to know the action taken against the persons responsible for such an event. This is a criminally careless action. The action should severe enough to serve as a warning to others.
2. Investigation should be ordered to check/confirm whether such so-called decayed sources are still available in other institutes. India Government should ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
3. Proper inventory of all sources lying in research institutes and in industrial units should be made by the national regulator, AERB on Cradle to Grave basis.
4. The government should publish full report on the incident and all information/actions taken should be made transparent.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Radiation emergency in Mayapuri, Delhi
As per the reports, a Gamma Cell imported in 1968 from Canada, was being used for research at the Delhi University. It was lying unused since 1985 i.e., for the last 25 years. The Cell contained a high-intensity radioactive source, Cobalt-60 with a half life of about 5.3 years. The source is well-shielded inside the cell using lead or depleted uranium as shield material. The source is safe for handling when it is inside the shield. Without shield, it is an open, bare source which can cause severe radiation exposure to people nearby. This is a typical radiation emergency situation, which requires radiation protection experts to manage.
In every 5.3 years, the radioactivity will be reduced by half of the existing activity. The sources lose considerable radioactivity after some years and are called decayed sources (misnomer), the sources still will have enough radioactivity, the exposure to which can be fatal to humans. Such decayed sources are required to be sent to either to the supplier or to the national waste management facility at BARC. Such transfers can be done only after consulting the national regulatory body, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) located at Anushaktinagar, Mumbai. In this case, it was just auctioned as metallic scrap material in February this year.
Legally, such radioactive source shall never be disposed off through auction or otherwise to any scrap dealer. All institutions using radioactive sources are required to inform the AERB regarding possession of the sources. AERB is supposed to keep inventory of all the radioactive sources existing with institutions/Universities and in industry. Large numbers of radioactive sources are used in industrial radiography a NDT used in quality control programs.
In every 5.3 years, the radioactivity will be reduced by half of the existing activity. The sources lose considerable radioactivity after some years and are called decayed sources (misnomer), the sources still will have enough radioactivity, the exposure to which can be fatal to humans. Such decayed sources are required to be sent to either to the supplier or to the national waste management facility at BARC. Such transfers can be done only after consulting the national regulatory body, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) located at Anushaktinagar, Mumbai. In this case, it was just auctioned as metallic scrap material in February this year.
Legally, such radioactive source shall never be disposed off through auction or otherwise to any scrap dealer. All institutions using radioactive sources are required to inform the AERB regarding possession of the sources. AERB is supposed to keep inventory of all the radioactive sources existing with institutions/Universities and in industry. Large numbers of radioactive sources are used in industrial radiography a NDT used in quality control programs.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Gamma cell – Mayapuri incident
Gamma cell (also called gamma irradiator) is used for irradiation of materials to study the effects of radiation. The cell generally contains high energy gamma radiation sources like cobalt-60. The cobal-60 is artificially produced in nuclear reactor by neutron irradiation of Cobalt-59 isotope. The Cobalt-59 is naturally occurring isotope and is not radioactive. Cobalt-60 has a half life of 5.3 years. This only means, in 5.3 years, the radioactive content of the source becomes one-half of the initial radioactivity. As per the decay law, in 2, 3, 4, half lives (in 10.6, 15.9 and 21.2 years), the radioactivity will reduce by one-fourth, one-ninth and one-sixteenth of the initial activity. It will take many more years for the radioactivity to come down to any acceptable, safe levels.
In some news papers, it was reported that the source found in a Mayapuri (Delhi, India) scrap dealer was showing radiation level of 1000 R/h (R is the unit of exposure rate, Roentgen per hour). It is also reported that the gamma cell was bought in 1968. That means the source has decayed by 8 half-lives. The initial dose rate must have been (8x8=64) in the range of 64,000 R/h.
Invariably the gamma cells are accompanied by the operating manuals and the design details. These documents, if available will give details about the number of source pencils and their configuration inside the cell which will vary depending on the required radiation dose for irradiation.
Sources of this high dose levels are never handled openly. They are handled remotely in specially designed and well-shielded enclosures called Hot Cells. The gamma cell is also a well-designed enclosure with the radiation source inside the lead or depleted uranium shield to prevent radiation leakage outside the cell. The design is such that only authorized persons with lock & key arrangement can remotely operate the source for irradiation of sample materials.
In some news papers, it was reported that the source found in a Mayapuri (Delhi, India) scrap dealer was showing radiation level of 1000 R/h (R is the unit of exposure rate, Roentgen per hour). It is also reported that the gamma cell was bought in 1968. That means the source has decayed by 8 half-lives. The initial dose rate must have been (8x8=64) in the range of 64,000 R/h.
Invariably the gamma cells are accompanied by the operating manuals and the design details. These documents, if available will give details about the number of source pencils and their configuration inside the cell which will vary depending on the required radiation dose for irradiation.
Sources of this high dose levels are never handled openly. They are handled remotely in specially designed and well-shielded enclosures called Hot Cells. The gamma cell is also a well-designed enclosure with the radiation source inside the lead or depleted uranium shield to prevent radiation leakage outside the cell. The design is such that only authorized persons with lock & key arrangement can remotely operate the source for irradiation of sample materials.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
IAEA Study on Child Radiation Doses from CT Scans
An international study, conducted by the IAEA, has shown that in some countries children are over-exposed while performing computed tomography (CT) scans. These children are receiving adult-sized radiation doses, although experts have warned against the practice for over a decade.
The study, which was carried out at 128 healthcare facilities in 28 developing countries in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe, also found great variation in radiation levels and in the frequency of CT scans performed on children under 15 years of age. The study showed that 11 CT centres in six countries were using adult exposure parameters for paediatric patients. This is due to the operator´s lack of awareness and with CT scans it is difficult to detect higher exposures from the image obtained. If the exposure is too high, the image does not deteriorate and in fact, it tends to look better.
This is in contrast to the conventional X-rays. If the exposure is slightly higher, the image goes black indicating that a higher radiation dose is given than required.
(IAEA News)
The study, which was carried out at 128 healthcare facilities in 28 developing countries in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe, also found great variation in radiation levels and in the frequency of CT scans performed on children under 15 years of age. The study showed that 11 CT centres in six countries were using adult exposure parameters for paediatric patients. This is due to the operator´s lack of awareness and with CT scans it is difficult to detect higher exposures from the image obtained. If the exposure is too high, the image does not deteriorate and in fact, it tends to look better.
This is in contrast to the conventional X-rays. If the exposure is slightly higher, the image goes black indicating that a higher radiation dose is given than required.
(IAEA News)
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Some more radioactive sources found in Delhi
Radiation monitoring experts from BARC have detected two more Co-60 sources in a scrap shop in the Mayapuri junk market. In view of the high energy radiations of Co-60 and its potential for causing harm in case of exposures, it is desirable that the authorities seriously look into the causes for the incidents and rectify the same so that there is nuclear-scare amongst the public. Among others, the authorities should also consider:
1. As a matter of requirement, all the scrap yards and metallic scrap shops should have radiation detection systems in place.
2. Import of metallic scrap should be banned.
3. Steel companies also should have radiation monitoring system in place for scrap monitoring before the scrap is processed for melting.
4. Medical management of radiation injuries should be part of curriculum in all the medical colleges.
5. Public awareness regarding radiation and radiation detection should be inculcated amongst para-medical staff and crime detection agencies.
1. As a matter of requirement, all the scrap yards and metallic scrap shops should have radiation detection systems in place.
2. Import of metallic scrap should be banned.
3. Steel companies also should have radiation monitoring system in place for scrap monitoring before the scrap is processed for melting.
4. Medical management of radiation injuries should be part of curriculum in all the medical colleges.
5. Public awareness regarding radiation and radiation detection should be inculcated amongst para-medical staff and crime detection agencies.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Radioactive source search and recovery – Mayapuri Delhi
Finding a radioactive source in scrap has become a common radiological occurrence world-wide. This is unfortunate because there is no way of knowing that a person is exposed to a radioactive source unless the exposure is severe and clinical changes are detectable in the exposed individuals as in the case of Mayapuri incident. BARC scientists have done a good job of searching and recovering the source in a scrap-yard in the locality. The so-called decayed sources and scraped industrial and medical cameras containing radioactive sources find entry into the scrap yards. This is a global problem and needs to be addressed by the regulators.
India, being a terror-targeted country, stringent monitoring and surveillance programs should be in place at all the scrap entry points like ports and all scrap-yards should be equipped with radiation detection systems. The existing laws governing the handling and disposal of radioactive sources should be enforced strictly to ensure safety of members of the public. The mass media channels should be used to create awareness about the radiation, radiation detection and radiation protection aspects. It is high time, we should wake up!
India, being a terror-targeted country, stringent monitoring and surveillance programs should be in place at all the scrap entry points like ports and all scrap-yards should be equipped with radiation detection systems. The existing laws governing the handling and disposal of radioactive sources should be enforced strictly to ensure safety of members of the public. The mass media channels should be used to create awareness about the radiation, radiation detection and radiation protection aspects. It is high time, we should wake up!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Health risks of mobile phone towers
Finally, the Maharashtra Government wakes up to the threat of potential health risks posed by the radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by the mobile phone towers. The government has appointed a high-level committee of experts to look into the matter and recommend norms for erecting the towers. Radiation protection-dedicated blogs (http://radsafe.blogspot.com and http://icareforyou2007.blogspot.com) and the Mumbai Mirror have been continuously publishing posts/reports asking for regulation on the installation of towers and control on usage of mobile phones by children and others.
Research findings have shown that the radiation is harmful and internationally accepted standards are available for controlling the exposures (see www.radsafetyinfo.com).
It is a good move by the government and the ignorant public is waiting to see how the government tackles the strong lobby of telecom service providers who will oppose the government’s move at all costs.
Research findings have shown that the radiation is harmful and internationally accepted standards are available for controlling the exposures (see www.radsafetyinfo.com).
It is a good move by the government and the ignorant public is waiting to see how the government tackles the strong lobby of telecom service providers who will oppose the government’s move at all costs.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Nuclear energy and high safety standards
In Indian scenario, as on today, the safety status in nuclear power plants apparently looks good. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, the regulator in India publishes detailed annual reports giving all the incidents occurred in the power plants and in other related facilities. Anyone can have access to these reports (www.aerb.gov.in).
However, the news papers keep on publishing insignificant and trivial occurrences, thus causing unnecessary doubts in the minds of a common man. For example: some depleted uranium pieces found with scrap dealer or tritium activity in water cooler at Kaiga, etc. etc. Depleted uranium is used as a shield material in industrial radiography cameras used for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). Once scrapped, these high density spares are likely to find its way to the scrap dealers. The second incident of tritium must be a deliberate attempt by some staff member to create confusion in the plant. Tritium is the least toxic radioactive material and the limits on intake as tritiated water or as tritium gas are very high. These are some radiological incidents are NOT related to nuclear safety of the power plants and the safety record of the power plants continues to be very satisfactory.
May be, there is some need of enforcing the existing regulations strictly in the plants, and security provisions of the radioactive sources should be augmented in public domain since the sources in sealed form are used in industrial and medical therapy applications. Let us not ignore the immense benefit of radiation in comparison with small amount of risk of remotely possible incidents which are common, and much more in other industries.
However, the news papers keep on publishing insignificant and trivial occurrences, thus causing unnecessary doubts in the minds of a common man. For example: some depleted uranium pieces found with scrap dealer or tritium activity in water cooler at Kaiga, etc. etc. Depleted uranium is used as a shield material in industrial radiography cameras used for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). Once scrapped, these high density spares are likely to find its way to the scrap dealers. The second incident of tritium must be a deliberate attempt by some staff member to create confusion in the plant. Tritium is the least toxic radioactive material and the limits on intake as tritiated water or as tritium gas are very high. These are some radiological incidents are NOT related to nuclear safety of the power plants and the safety record of the power plants continues to be very satisfactory.
May be, there is some need of enforcing the existing regulations strictly in the plants, and security provisions of the radioactive sources should be augmented in public domain since the sources in sealed form are used in industrial and medical therapy applications. Let us not ignore the immense benefit of radiation in comparison with small amount of risk of remotely possible incidents which are common, and much more in other industries.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Terahertz radiation (T rays)
Terahertz radiation band covers the electro-magnetic wavelength in the range between 0.1 and 1 mm in microwave region. It is non-ionizing type of radiation. The radiation can pass through clothing, paper, cardboard, wood, plastic and ceramics. It can also penetrate fog and clouds, but cannot penetrate metal or water. The rays are highly sensitive to material’s composition.
Recently, a linear accelerator was used to generate a strong beam of T rays. More recently, an electron storage ring used for producing powerful X-rays was used to produce high-power T rays. The high energy T rays can penetrate living cells, without damaging them (unlike X-rays).
The possible applications for T-rays range from basic research, such as studying the properties of superconductors, to medical imaging, and even security. It is expected that effects on tissues are thermal in nature, similar to RF radiation. Further studies need to be carried out to investigate the health effects of the T rays.
If it is safer than X-rays, it is expected to replace X-rays in various applications, particularly in mass screening and in security applications. Anything safer is better.
Recently, a linear accelerator was used to generate a strong beam of T rays. More recently, an electron storage ring used for producing powerful X-rays was used to produce high-power T rays. The high energy T rays can penetrate living cells, without damaging them (unlike X-rays).
The possible applications for T-rays range from basic research, such as studying the properties of superconductors, to medical imaging, and even security. It is expected that effects on tissues are thermal in nature, similar to RF radiation. Further studies need to be carried out to investigate the health effects of the T rays.
If it is safer than X-rays, it is expected to replace X-rays in various applications, particularly in mass screening and in security applications. Anything safer is better.
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