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Short Communication - Journal of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3
The power of radioactivity and applications of nuclear medicine.
Paige Greco *
Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States
- *Corresponding Author:
- Paige Greco
Department of Radiology,
Brigham and Women's Hospital,
Boston, United States
E-mail: Paige.g@bwh.harvard.edu
Received: 22-May-2023, Manuscript No. AABIB-23-97333; Editor assigned: 25-May-2023, PreQC No. AABIB-23-97333 (PQ); Reviewed: 08-Jun-2023, QC No. AABIB-23-97333; Revised: 12-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. AABIB-23-97333; Published: 20-Jun-2023, DOI:10.35841/aabib-7.3.183
Citation: Greco P, The power of radioactivity and applications of nuclear medicine. J Biomed Imag Bioeng. 2023;7(3):182.
Introduction
Nuclear medicine is a branch of medicine that uses small amounts of radioactive materials called Radiopharmaceuticals to diagnose and treat diseases. Radiopharmaceuticals are composed of a radioactive material and a pharmaceutical compound that is designed to target specific organs, tissues, or cells in the body. When the radiopharmaceutical is injected into the body, it emits radiation that can be detected by a special camera called a gamma camera or PET scanner. This allows doctors to see how organs and tissues are functioning and to diagnose diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders [1].
One of the most common radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine is Technetium-99m (Tc-99m), which is used in over 80% of all nuclear medicine procedures. Tc-99m is a short-lived radioisotope that emits gamma radiation, making it ideal for imaging studies. It is commonly used to image the heart, liver, lungs, and bones. Other radiopharmaceuticals, such as Fluorine-18 (F-18) and Carbon-11 (C-11), are used in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, which allows for more detailed images of the body [2].
In addition to imaging, radioisotopes are also used in radiation therapy to treat cancer. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. Radioisotopes such as Iodine-131 (I-131) and Yttrium-90 (Y-90) are commonly used in radiation therapy. I-131 is used to treat thyroid cancer, while Y-90 is used to treat liver cancer. Apart from medicine, radioactivity has numerous other applications. In industry, radioisotopes are used for materials testing, quality control, and radiography. They are also used in the oil and gas industry to locate and evaluate reserves. Radioisotopes can also be used in agriculture to improve crop yields and reduce the use of pesticides [3].
Despite the many benefits of radioactivity, it can also pose risks to human health and the environment if not used appropriately. The radioactive materials used in nuclear medicine and other applications need to be handled and disposed of properly to minimize the risk of exposure. Radioactive waste management is a critical aspect of the nuclear industry, and strict regulations are in place to ensure the safe handling, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials. One of the most significant risks associated with radioactivity is radiation exposure. Exposure to ionizing radiation can damage cells and DNA, leading to cancer and other health problems. Therefore, workers who handle radioactive materials must be trained and equipped with protective gear to minimize their exposure. Nuclear power plants, which use radioactive materials to generate electricity, are subject to strict safety regulations to prevent radiation leaks and accidents [4].
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in developing new applications of nuclear technology, such as nuclear fusion and advanced nuclear reactors. Nuclear fusion, the process that powers the sun, could potentially provide a nearly limitless source of clean energy. Advanced nuclear reactors, which use different types of fuel and cooling systems than traditional nuclear reactors, offer the promise of safer and more efficient nuclear energy. Radioactivity is a powerful force with numerous applications in medicine and beyond. Nuclear medicine has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions, and radioisotopes continue to play an important role in the field. The potential for radioactivity in other fields, such as industry and agriculture, is also significant. However, it is important to use radioisotopes responsibly and with caution, as they can be dangerous if not handled properly [5].
References
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- Brenner DJ, Elliston CD, Hall EJ, et al. Estimated risks of radiation-induced fatal cancer from pediatric CT. Am J Roentgenol. 2001;176(2):289-96.
- Brody AS, Frush DP, Huda W, et al. Radiation risk to children from computed tomography. Pediatrics. 2007;120(3):677-82.
- Donnelly LF, Emery KH, Brody AS, et al. Minimizing radiation dose for pediatric body applications of single-detector helical CT: Strategies at a large children's hospital. Am J Roentgenol. 2001;176(2):303-6.
- Scott AD, Keegan J, Firmin DN. High?resolution 3D coronary vessel wall imaging with near 100% respiratory efficiency using epicardial fat tracking: Reproducibility and comparison with standard methods. J Magn Reson. 2011;33(1):77-86.