Title: Establishment of diagnostic reference levels for common X-ray examinations performed in Nigeria

Authors: Latifat Ronke Owoade; Bidemi I. Akinlade; Idowu Peter Farai

Addresses: National Institute of Radiation Protection and Research, Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria ' Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; University College Hospital (Ibadan), Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria ' Department of Physics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract: Principles of radiation protection involve justification, optimisation and dose limit. In medical exposures, Diagnostic Reference Level (DRL) is used instead of dose limit. There is no established DRL in Nigeria. However, findings from studies on patients' dose in diagnostic radiology by several authors in Nigeria are usually compared with International DRLs. This study aimed at establishing DRLs for common X-ray examinations (Chest PA, Abdomen AP, Skull AP and Extremities). Structured questionnaires were used to obtain patients' demographic data and X-ray units' information, while a calibrated Diavolt dosimeter was used to measure incident air kerma, which was used to calculate ESD of 2960 patients from 106 diagnostic centres. The DRL (mGy) obtained were: 0.88 (Chest PA), 2.95 (Abdomen AP), 2.89 (Skull AP) and 0.72 (Extremities). The DRL for chest PA was higher than International DRLs (0.88 vs 0.15-0.40). This study would serve as a baseline for the establishment of comprehensive national DRLs.

Keywords: diagnostic reference level; radiation protection; diagnostic radiology; entrance skin dose; X-ray examination.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLR.2025.154401

International Journal of Low Radiation, 2025 Vol.12 No.1, pp.12 - 28

Received: 25 Jan 2024
Accepted: 11 Dec 2024
Published online: 26 Jun 2026 *

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