14 August 2014
PRESS STATEMENT
The British Institute of Radiology supports the recommendations of the
COMARE report on radiation dose issues
The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) welcomes the report by the Committee on Medical Aspects of
Radiation in the Environment (COMARE) on patient radiation dose issues resulting from the use of
CT in the UK, published 14 August 2014.
Professor Andrew Jones, President of the BIR, said “This COMARE report provides a welcome
reminder of the importance of optimising the use of ionising radiation to ensure the maximum
benefit to patients. This requires a concerted effort from a range of healthcare professionals
including physicists, radiographers and radiologists. The report stresses the need for ongoing reviews
of patient doses and warns against complacency, adding that continuing professional development in
this area is vital for the professionals mentioned above. The BIR endorses this report, whilst
recognising the already large benefit that CT scanning provides to the UK population.”
The BIR Radiation Protection Special Interest Group are meeting to form a detailed formal response
to the report and action plan.
The full report can be downloaded here
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/review-of-radiation-dose-issues-from-the-use-of-ctin-the-uk
Ends
Notes to Editors
About The British Institute of Radiology

The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) is an independent multidisciplinary organisation, and
a registered charity, whose membership is open to everyone with an interest in radiology
and radiation oncology.

The British Institute of Radiology is the oldest radiological society in the world.

We strive to ensure that the potential of image science and radiation technology to prevent,
detect and combat disease is fully realised. We believe in the importance of research and
education, and we promote collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and understanding.

To help fulfil our aims, we undertake a wide range of activities, including publishing, the
organisation of scientific meetings and conferences and the provision of library and
information services.
For information about this release please contact:
Carole Cross
Communications Manager
48-50 St John Street
London EC1M 4DG
Tel. 020 3668 2224 carole.cross@bir.org.uk www.bir.org.uk