WHO has released a new publication: “Communicating radiation risks in paediatric imaging” intended to help health-care providers communicate both the benefits and the risks of paediatric imaging. It will raise awareness among medical professionals - not only about radiation risks, but also the importance of conducting risk-benefit discussions with patients and families - and equip professionals with the communication skills to best deliver the message. The document provides several approaches to help medical professionals answer questions, like “How much radiation will my child receive?” and “How much medical radiation is too much?”.
“Communicating radiation risks in paediatric imaging” is also used by AFROSAFE, the campaign launched by the Pan African Congress of Radiology and Imaging. The new communication tool will serve as a basis to further develop training packages to improve communication skills of health care workers, as well as advocacy and information materials.