2Department of Radiation Oncology, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul-Türkiye DOI : 10.5505/tjo.2025.4572 OBJECTIVE
In advanced healthcare institutions, radiation oncology professionals are among the priority teams whose knowledge and experience are utilized in radiation accident emergencies. The team with high knowledge and awareness in first aid and damage assessment, plays a critical role in the effective management of vital interventions and resources.We aimed to evaluate the awareness and knowledge levels of radiation oncology professionals, Radiation Oncology Physician (ROP)and Radiation Oncology Medical Physicist (ROMP), regarding radiation accident emergencies.
METHODS
The study was designed to analyze responses of radiation oncology professionals working in Türkiye. The 1st
part of the survey consists of 4 questions aiming to collect demographic information. The 2nd part consists of
13 questions aiming to measure the knowledge levels about acute radiation syndrome (ARS) and radiation
accident dosimetry (RAD). SPSS27.0 was used in the analyses, the significance difference between the groups
was examined using the Chi-Square independence test, p<0.05.
RESULTS
Of the participants, 51.1%were ROP, 48.9%were ROMP. Analysis of the 2nd part, 6 questions (2-ARS/4-RAD)
were determined to have a correct response rate ?50%. Only one RAD question has a "no idea" response rate
?50%. Incorrect response rate ?50% was observed in 3questions (2-ARS/1-RAD). The correct response rates
among occupational groups, ROPs had a significantly higher response rate in 4-ARS questions,while ROMPs
had a significantly higher rate in1-ARS/3-RAD questions (p<0.05), and no significance was found between
occupational groups in 5 questions (p>0.05).
CONCLUSION
The survey revealed variability in the level of knowledge regarding different features of ARS and RAD. Also
observed that correct response rates varied among professional groups. The results emphasize the importance
of standardizing the knowledge of all professionals. It is recommended training on clinical management of
ARS and RAD, and to organize comprehensive and periodic training programs. Especially simulation-based
training and case studies can make significant contributions.