OBJECTIVE We tested the Analytical Hierarchy Process tool for its use in public health to identify potential gaps in emergency preparedness by local health departments (LHDs) in California and Hawaii during a radiological emergency. METHODS We developed a dedicated tool called All-Hazards Preparedness Squared (AHP2) that can be used by those who are responsible for all-hazards preparedness pl...

background: although ionizing radiation is widely used to diagnose many diseases, the relevant hazards are known to be as an important limitation of its application. it is believed that the awareness of ionizing radiation dose values is one of the main stages in patient's radiation protection. the purpose of this study has been to investigate the level of physicians' knowledge about r...

Background: All human beings and living organisms are exposed to natural radiations on daily basis, which is mainly due to the activity concentration of primordial radionuclides 232Th, 238U and their products of decay together with the natural radionuclide 40K present in the earth’s crust. Materials and Methods: A total of 59 soil samples were collected around the banks and surroundings of the ...

Hospital planning for chemical or radiological events is essential but all too often treated as a low priority. Although some other types of disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes may be more frequent, chemical and radiological emergencies have the potential for major disruptions to clinical care. Thorough planning can mitigate the impact of a chemical or radiological event. Planning needs to ...

Background: Although ionizing radiation is widely used to diagnose many diseases, the relevant hazards are known to be as an important limitation of its application. It is believed that the awareness of ionizing radiation dose values is one of the main stages in patient's radiation protection. The purpose of this study has been to investigate the level of physicians' knowledge about radiation d...

Background: Health hazards associated with exposure due to the natural radioactivity which is a part of our physical environment are of great concern. In order to assess the risks associated with exposure due to the natural radioactivity in soil and building materials, extensive studies have been carried out all over the world. The most commonly encountered radionuclide’s are 238U, 2...

OBJECTIVE To document the ability of public health laboratories to respond to radiological emergencies. METHODS The Association of Public Health Laboratories developed, distributed, and analyzed two separate surveys of public health laboratories representing the 50 US states and major nonstate jurisdictions. The 2009 All-Hazards Laboratory Preparedness Survey examined overall laboratory capab...