RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Radiological examinations are critical for the evaluation of many disorders in daily practice. PURPOSE: To determine the knowledge of ionizing radiation and radiological imaging techniques among physicians of various grades. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was carried out of 55 physicians with a mean age of 35.7 ± 6.0 years (age range 25-52 years) in a university hospital. A questionnaire which tested physicians' information about ionizing radiation and their risks was distributed by medical school students. RESULTS: Among the participants, 32 (58.2%) were consultants and 23 (41.8%) were residents. The mean score was 68.2 ± 11.1 (range 37.8-91.8) out of 100. Consultants' points were lower than residents (p = 0.040). Consultants had significantly higher frequency of incorrect answer than residents in the question about 'whether CT scan increases lifetime cancer risk' (p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: Medical practices in years do not enhance the level of the awareness regarding the ionizing radiation.