Radiation Risks and Countermeasures in Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine represents a pivotal field within contemporary medical diagnostics and therapeutics, offering unique advantages through the use of radioactive tracers for imaging and treatment. However, the use of ionizing radiation in clinical practice continues to provoke concern regarding the long-term and short-term risks posed to patients, healthcare professionals, and the environment. Growing emphasis on healthcare safety, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation has underscored the need to systematically address radiation exposure risks and implement effective protective strategies. Numerous studies have offered insights into the distribution, magnitude, and mitigation of radiation risks, highlighting the potential for adverse health effects such as tissue damage, carcinogenesis, and occupational hazards, as well as stressing gaps in our understanding of cumulative exposure and secondary effects.While recent research has contributed significantly to optimizing radiation dose management, enhancing personal protective equipment, and refining training protocols, knowledge gaps remain regarding individualized risk assessment, longitudinal health outcomes, and the effectiveness of current safety standards. Debates continue on the adequacy of dose thresholds, best practices for staff and patient protection, and the cost-effectiveness of emerging technologies. Moreover, the increasing complexity of nuclear medicine procedures calls for more nuanced approaches to risk evaluation and the balancing of diagnostic benefits against potential radiation-induced harm. Ongoing efforts to harmonize international guidelines and spread awareness underscore the necessity for continuous research and innovation in this area.This Research Topic aims to advance comprehensive understanding and practical approaches to managing radiation risks in nuclear medicine. Key objectives include evaluating current and emerging risks associated with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, investigating the efficacy of countermeasures and safety protocols, and exploring innovative technologies and strategies for minimizing radiation exposure. New advances in expansion of theranostic α-emitters, escalating occupational doses in therapy suites, unmet needs for individualized dosimetry, machine-learning–based risk prediction, new ICRP recommendations affecting nuclear medicine will be especially considered.By addressing these aims, the research seeks to inform policy, education, and clinical practice, ultimately improving patient and occupational safety. To gather further insights within the context of radiation safety and mitigation strategies in nuclear medicine, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes: &#8226 Dose optimization and monitoring in nuclear medicine procedures &#8226 Novel protective technologies and equipment &#8226 Risk assessment models for patients and healthcare professionals &#8226 Regulatory frameworks and international safety guidelines &#8226 Educational and training approaches for radiation protection &#8226 Long-term health effects and epidemiological studies &#8226 Innovations in radiopharmaceutical development and application Topic editors: Alexandros G Georgakilas Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77859/radiation-risks-and-countermeasures-in-nuclear-medicine