World radiography day is celebrated annually on 8th November to mark the birth of X-rays. This day also celebrates the personnel who make the X-ray possible.
Radiographic imaging plays a salient role in the diagnosis and the treatment of patients. It is important that the radiation level is kept to the minimum required so that it improves the health of patients instead of being harmful to them.
The theme of the International Day of radiology is “Radiographers at the Forefront of Patient Safety. “The theme aims to encourage all professionals in this field to recognize and promote the role of radiology in patient treatment.
X-rays were discovered fortuitously by Professor Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen of Wuerzburg University, Germany in 1895. Conrad was working with a cathode-ray tube in his laboratory when he detected a fluorescent glow of crystals on a table near his tube, which contained a bulb with negative and positive electrodes.
The tube began producing a fluorescent glow when the air inside it was removed and a high voltage was applied.
He also discovered that when the tube was shielded with a black paper material and placed a few feet away, it would generate a green fluorescent light.
Following these observations, Wilhelm concluded that the tube was releasing a new type of ray that was capable of passing through the paper covering.
He further realized that the ray could pass through human tissues but not through bones and metal.
Just a month into the discovery, medical personnel from Europe and US began using the Xrays.About 6 months into later, X-rays were used in the battle fields to help the wounded soldiers.
As a way of observing the World Radiography day, one is advised to visit their doctor to get a full-body check-up done even if they feel fine.
Moreover, people are encouraged to honor the pioneers of Xrays.It is important to celebrate those who sacrificed their health back then when carrying out x-rays without any protective gears since its adverse effects were not known by then.
Helping in spreading awareness about x-rays also help the general public in gaining knowledge about this painless test.
BY STACY ODHIAMBO