AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE OF PATIENTS TOWARDS RADIATION EXPOSURE IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS

Background: Radiation exposure, particularly ionizing radiation, is a significant concern in medical imaging. Understanding patient awareness of radiation risks is crucial for improving healthcare practices. Although previous studies have explored this area, knowledge gaps remain, especially in regions with limited educational outreach. This study aims to assess the level of awareness and attitudes toward radiological exposure among patients in Peshawar and Mardan. Objective: The study aimed to assess patient knowledge and attitudes toward radiological exposure and to investigate how their knowledge influences their attitudes toward medical imaging procedures. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, and Mardan Medical Complex, Mardan, from June to November 2022. A systemic random sampling technique was used to select 335 patients for data collection. A pre-designed questionnaire was administered to gather information on demographics, knowledge of ionizing radiation, and attitudes toward radiological tests. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS/Excel, and descriptive statistics, including percentages, frequencies, and graphical presentations, were used to analyze the data. Results: Of the 335 participants, only 99 (29.6%) were aware of ionizing radiation, while 236 (70.4%) were unaware. The majority (50 participants, 14.9%) cited educational institutes as their primary source of knowledge. Awareness was positively correlated with education level, as participants with higher educational qualifications demonstrated better knowledge. A significant portion (58.2%) of participants lacked awareness of radiation hazards and were therefore not concerned about undergoing further radiological tests. Conclusion: The study revealed a significant lack of awareness regarding the risks of radiation exposure among patients. Educational institutes and social media are key platforms to enhance patient education. This highlights the need for improved communication and educational programs to promote awareness of radiation safety in healthcare settings.