Determination of diagnostic reference level in routine examinations of digital radiography in Nigeria

While ionizing radiation plays a pivotal role in the precise diagnosis and treatment, it concurrently engenders risks, including an elevated incidence of cancer. The research speaks to the discernible decline in quality assurance programmes and dose measurement endeavors within Nigerian imaging facilities, with a substantial portion lacking established protocols for routine machine calibration and dose measurement. This study encompasses a large-scale survey involving 307 adult patients undergoing routine X-ray procedures in two hospitals in Nigeria. Thermo-luminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were used for measuring Entrance Skin Dose (ESD) of consenting adult patients. The mean ESD values ranged from 1.16 mGy to a maximum of 3.94 mGy. Notably, these values were predominantly below the dose reference levels (DRLs) established by reputable bodies such as NRPB, CEC, IAEA, and UK for most examinations. The main purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic reference level (DRL) for routine digital radiography examinations in Nigeria.