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40th Seminar of the Global Strategic Center for Radiation Health
Risk
Control
The 40th Seminar
Radiation Risk Assessment under the Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Health Care Settings
Dr. María del Rosario Perez
Radiation and Environmental Health Programme Department
of Public Health and Environment (PHE)
Health Security and Environment Cluster (HSE)
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO)
Proper environmental management is the key to avoiding the quarter of all preventable illnesses which are directly caused by environmental factors. The aim of the Department of Public Health and Environment of the World Health Organization is to promote a healthier environment, intensify primary prevention and influence public policies in all sectors so as to address the root causes of environmental threats to health.
WHO is responsible for recommending evidence-based public health policy to protect health and reduce radiation risks and for the provision of technical support and capacity building on radiation protection and health.
The use of radiation in medicine has led to major improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. As the benefits for patients gain recognition, the use of radiation in medicine increases. While the development of modern health technology makes new applications safer, their inappropriate use can lead to unnecessary or unintended radiation doses, and can cause potential health hazards for patients and staff. The wide use of radiation in medicine calls for a public health approach to controlling and minimizing health risks, while maximizing the benefits.
WHO has launched the Global Initiative on Radiation Safety in Health Care Settings to mobilize the health sector in the safe use of radiation in medicine and support Member States in the implementation of radiation safety standards in health care. Risk assessment is an essential component of this initiative, to build the science foundation which is needed to develop policies and recommendations. The strategic approach of this Global Initiative seeks translation of research and knowledge into evidence-based policy and interventions.
