Research progress on the effects of ionizing radiation exposure on cardiovascular systems / 中国辐射卫生

With the rapid development and widespread application of medical imaging technologies, ionizing radiation has become unavoidable in human lives. Accurate assessment of healthy effects of ionizing radiation is of great significance to reduce the risk of exposure to radiation. Increasing evidence has proven the impact of ionizing radiation on cardiovascular systems. This article reviews the effects of ionizing radiation on heart, blood pressure, and blood vessels and the possible mechanisms, so as to provide insights into implementation of targeted protective interventions and reduction of ionizing radiation hazard.

Research progress on occupational hazards of cosmic radiation for aircrew / 环境与职业医学

According to the data released by the Civil Aviation Administration of China in 2020, there are more than 60000 pilots and more than 100000 flight attendants in China working with certificates in various airlines. The health of these aircrew is the basis for maintaining and continuing the smooth development of civil aviation. Aircrew are exposed to cosmic radiation at high altitudes. However, because the types of cosmic radiation are complex, changeable, and difficult to measure accurately, there is no definite conclusion as to whether it has any effect on the health of aircrew. This paper introduced the impacts of cosmic radiation on aircrew, reviewed the estimation of cosmic radiation dose at home and abroad, and summarized the cosmic radiation dose measurement methods and their limitations. It also pointed out the shortcomings of existing occupational health management of aircrew and put forward new suggestions on strengthening the health management of radiation hazards for aircrew.

Current status of medical radiation exposure and regulation efforts

The radiation exposure from diagnostic medical imaging has increased. The potential risk from radiation exposure of the patient also has increased even though the risk from a small amount of radiation exposure has not been clearly demonstrated. Any medical radiation exposure must be justified and the examinations which use ionizing radiation must be optimized. The education of the referring physician and radiologist are important. However, stronger regulation is essential to control medical radiation exposure. Many national and international organizations have made a significant effort to regulate and monitor medical radiation exposure using guidelines, accreditation, or even laws. Medical radiation exposure must be controlled, and this could be achieved by continuous interest from health professionals and organizations.