Radiobiology and Radiation Protection

Module 1 Radiation chemistry: review of radiation interactions; chemical composition of the human body; radiolysis of water; linear energy transfer; relative biological effectiveness; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 2 Cellular radiation effects: organic compounds in cells; cellular structure; cell division; cellular effects of radiation; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 3 Systemic radiation effects: radiation dose-response relationship; acute radiation syndrome; haematopoietic syndrome; gastrointestinal syndrome; central nervous system syndrome; radiation effects on the fetus; LD 50/30; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 4 Genetic effects: the concept of mutation; radiation effects on DNA; cytogenetic effects; hereditary effects in humans; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 5 Somatic effects: basic concepts and mechanism of carcinogenesis; radiation-induced malignancy; leukaemia; other cancers; dose-response relationship for radiation-induced cancer; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 6 Radiation detection and measurement: units of measure; types of personnel monitoring devices; calibration instruments - uses, advantages and disadvantages; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 7 Patient protection: effective communication; beam-limiting devices and filtrations; shields, immobilization; exposure and film factors; repeat radiographs; patient dose; paediatric considerations; pregnancy considerations; self-assessment quiz; examination. Module 8 Radiographer protection: room construction and design; radiographic equipment and techniques; personnel protective devices; fluoroscopic procedures; mobile procedures; self-assessment quiz; examination.