Review Can the Life Span of Invasive Cardiologists be Shortened by Their Radiation Exposure?

This review was presented in a panel discussion on the potential risks to which invasive cardiologists are exposed in their working environment. First, the biological effects of ionizing radiation were deseribed and the units of radiation were defined to help understand and quantify the magnitude of potential somati and genetic risks involved. Next, the !eve! of radiation invasive cardiologists are generally exposed to was reviewed. In the light of this information the probabilities of cancer, cataract and genetic risks were discussed. If proper measures of protection are followed, it is unlikely that invasive cardiologists will receive cumulative Effective Dose Equivalent to significantly affect their life span; however, in the case of very busy interventional cardiologists, in the course of a 30-year career cumulative doses may theoretically reach a !eve! to cause an addirional cancer risk of 2-4%. Considering the fact that there is no safe lower Iimit for ionizing radiation, the cumulative effects and the long Iateney period, every precaution should be taken to keep the exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle). To help to achieve this goal, suggested protective measures are listed at the end.