About the Study

The U. S. Radiologic Technologists Study is a collaborative effort between the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

A key goal of the study is to understand how repeated low-dose occupational ionizing radiation exposures, such as those potentially experienced by radiologic technologists, are related to cancer and other health conditions.

This study began in 1982 by identifying 146,022 current and former radiologic technologists who were certified by the ARRT for at least two years from 1926 to 1982. The study cohort includes technologists certified in radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy and other imaging specialties.

This study is unique because:

• It represents the most comprehensive study of people exposed to radiation in medical jobs.
• It is a nationwide study representing all U.S. states and territories.
• It is the largest study of people working in the medical field who are exposed to ionizing radiation.
• The study population is mostly women.

The study has conducted three major surveys: a Fourth Survey is planned in 2012. It will include new questions about radioisotope and interventional radiation procedures, as well as questions about non-radiation factors that may affect health. The goal of this survey will be to update and expand upon information collected in the previous surveys.