Radiation Protection in Mammography

This chapter deals with radiation protection in general, from the definition of this interdisciplinary science to general dosimetric quantities; to descriptive parameters of the dose delivered in mammography and diagnostic reference levels (DRL). It explains what the delivered dose depends on, what the reference parameter to monitor is, the average glandular dose (AGD), and what the acceptable dose levels are in different countries. Directive 2013/59/Euratom is mentioned, and what the specific responsibilities of the Breast Radiographer are. The key points for dose containment are listed, and the use of contact protection is discussed. A section is devoted to dose recording in radiology, and on radio-induced tumours linked to participation in a breast screening programme.