Happy 12th International Day of Radiology!!!☢️🩻⚕️
On this day in 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered X-rays, revolutionizing medicine by providing the first way to view inside the human body non-invasively.
This discovery granted him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901.
The first-ever X-ray, depicting Röntgen’s wife’s hand with a ring, remained famous in history!!
Yesterday, November 7, was also an important date, as it marks the birthday of Marie Curie, the renowned scientist who discovered two new elements, polonium and radium, using techniques she invented for isolating radioactive isotopes, and who coined the term radioactivity, a concept that would become central to both science and medicine.
Her achievements earned her a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903, shared with her husband Pierre and Henri Becquerel, for their joint research on radioactivity.
Later, in 1911, she won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in recognition of her discovery of polonium and radium and her study of their properties. She was even the first person to win two Nobel prizes!!
Curie’s work laid the foundation for radiotherapy and the treatment of cancer, making her contributions life-changing for generations.
During World War I, she even developed the first mobile X-ray units, known as “Les Petites Curie,” to help doctors treat soldiers in the trenches on the front lines.
Not only did Marie Curie’s life contribute significantly to the advancement of science, but her death also shed new light on the dangers of radiation exposure. Curie’s prolonged and unprotected exposure to radioactive materials, particularly radium, ultimately led to her death from aplastic anemia, a condition caused by bone marrow failure. At the time, the risks of radiation were not fully understood, and she often worked with radioactive substances without protective measures, unaware of the long-term health consequences.
Her tragic death highlighted the urgent need for safety protocols when handling radioactive materials.
This led to the development of radiation protection systems and the establishment of radiological safety standards. One of the most important outcomes was the creation of the ALARA principle, “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This concept emphasizes minimizing radiation exposure to the lowest possible levels, balancing the need for effective diagnosis and treatment with the imperative to protect both patients and medical professionals.
Marie Curie's life stands as a powerful example of a woman who made history, despite the societal stereotypes of her time that confined women to the role of housekeepers. She defied those expectations with her groundbreaking scientific achievements, proving that also women could excel in fields dominated by men.
November, thanks to incredible people like Röntgen and Marie Curie is really an important month for radiology:)!
🌍📅 Important reminder! November 8th is the 12th International Day of Radiology 🎉 Let's come together to celebrate the essential role of radiology in patient care—from early detection to groundbreaking treatments!
We invite all radiologists, radiographers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates to join the festivities. Share your stories, photos 📸, and reflections, and don’t forget to tag #IDoR2024 to spread the word!
Let’s amplify the impact of radiology on health and patient outcomes together! 🌟 https://lnkd.in/eScEw74