National diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for general and interventional radiography, mammography, and CT scan based on the latest surveys in Iran

Establishing Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) is crucial for optimizing patient radiation protection during diagnostic imaging procedures. This study aims to develop national DRLs for diagnostic radiology in Iran, based on a comprehensive retrospective analysis of previous research projects, and studies. Necessary information was gathered from various data, including research project reports, graduate theses, and articles published in scientific journals, or presented in national and international conferences. After initial data validation, DRL values were established by detailed analysis. DRLs were established for various anatomical locations including the four main imaging modalities, e.g. , radiology, computed tomography (CT), mammography, and interventional radiology. For instance, the DRL for radiology abdomen imaging was set at an entrance surface dose (ESD) of 3.29 mGy, while for CT head imaging, the DRL was a CTDI vol of 49 mGy. The NDRL values in Iran showed some variability in Comparison with the DRLs from other countries. This underscores the need for the establishment of natural DRLs. The study highlights the importance of cooperative efforts among academic and research institutions for updating the DRL values. This study provides national DRL for radiological imagings, contributing to the global effort in radiological protection.