Radiation is a Double-edged Sword—a Historical Review of Radiological Protection - Abstract
While the author has engaged in nuclear medicine practices and research for over half a century, he has opportunities to serve to ICRP, UNSCEAR, IAEA and Radiation Council of Japan, through which he closely acquainted with radiation protection. He experienced 2 big events of nuclear accidents in Japan and involved in dealing with the aftermath of the accidents. Based on those experiences this historical review emphasizes the importance of appropriate education on radiation and its effects and protection in every level of schooling in order that people may take appropriate actions and behaviors based on correct judgements in receiving medical radiology and radiation therapy as well as in case of radiation and nuclear emergencies. In particular medical professionals need to be familiar enough with radiation and its effects to guide the general public to take appropriate actions.