A Professor of Paediatric Radiology at the University of Ibadan, Professor Omolola Mojisola Atalabi, has called for safer paediatric imaging and stronger radiation protection policies to enhance healthcare delivery for children.
Atalabi made this call while delivering the 619th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan on behalf of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences.
The lecture was titled: “Spinning in the Invisible Rays of Paediatric Imaging: A Prophecy Fulfilled from Darkness to Light of Destiny.”
Professor Atalabi explained that paediatric imaging has become an essential component of modern healthcare, saying it enables accurate diagnosis and effective management of childhood diseases.
She noted that while diagnostic imaging has revolutionised medical practice, children remain particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of ionising radiation.
She, therefore, warned that imaging procedures involving children must be carefully considered to ensure maximum benefits with minimal risks.
The Inaugural Lecturer emphasised the importance of radiation safety principles, which require healthcare professionals to ensure that imaging procedures are properly justified and performed using the lowest possible radiation dose capable of producing accurate diagnostic results.
She noted that although diagnostic X-rays are generally safe when properly used by trained professionals, inappropriate imaging requests and poorly regulated facilities expose patients, particularly children, to avoidable risks.
The professor advocated stricter regulation of imaging centres, continuous professional training for radiologists, radiographers and medical physicists, as well as the development of locally appropriate imaging protocols that prioritise patient safety while maintaining diagnostic quality.
She urged regulatory authorities to strengthen the monitoring of imaging facilities, especially private centres, to ensure compliance with paediatric radiation safety standards.
The Professor of Paediatrics Radiology also called for the inclusion of protection against excessive ionising radiation within the Child Rights Act, recognising children as a uniquely vulnerable population that require special legal safeguards.
She disclosed that man-made radiation now contributes significantly to total radiation exposure, with Computed Tomography (CT) and Nuclear Medicine accounting for the largest share of medical radiation doses.
The lecturer noted that the global “Image Gently” campaign promotes the use of imaging protocols tailored to children, stressing that adult imaging approaches should not automatically be applied to paediatric patients.
She stated that the safe use of imaging technologies requires collaboration among radiologists, radiographers, medical physicists and other healthcare professionals to protect patients while maintaining quality healthcare services.
Atalabi advocated the increased use of safer imaging alternatives, including ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), where appropriate, noting that these technologies can provide valuable diagnostic information without exposing children to ionising radiation.
She called for continuous training and professional development for radiologists, radiographers and medical physicists in radiation safety, quality control and appropriate imaging protocols, while encouraging clinicians to consult radiologists when determining the most appropriate imaging procedures for patients.
The don also stressed the need for increased investment in specialised training and improved access to basic imaging equipment for medical students and healthcare professionals.
She noted that developing competent professionals and strengthening healthcare systems are essential to sustaining advancement in radiology and improving patient outcomes.
The Professor of Paediatrics Radiology emphasised that mentorship, collaboration and service remain vital in developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
She asserted that the future of paediatric imaging depends on balancing technological advancement with ethical responsibility, scientific evidence and a commitment to patient safety.
