REDUCING RADIATION EXPOSURES IN X-RAYS

[Anchor Lead]

Korean researchers have developed the world's first digital method that allows to drastically reduce radiation exposure from X rays used in medical tests. The groundbreaking technology is expected to bring significant changes to the medical diagnostic imaging market.

[Pkg]

X ray tests are indispensable for diagnosing bone fractures and lung diseases. But they pose the risk of radiation exposure, which can cause cancer. The existing method of producing x-rays by heating filaments to two thousand degrees Celsius emits large amounts of radiation because it's difficult to control. However, the new digital method developed by the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute is powered by electricity and allows for the subtle handling of x rays, emitting up to 90 percent less radiation compared to the existing method. It has a faster response time and produces clearer and more precise images.

[Soundbite] KIM JIN-SUNG(PROF., YONSEI UNIVERSITY) : "This technology allows to drastically reduce radiation and produces high-quality images."

Seven Korean companies are currently using the technology to develop x-ray dental equipment for export. The United States, Japan and Europe have been researching the digital x-ray technology for the past two decades, but Korea is the world's first to commercialize it.

[Soundbite] SONG YUN-HO(ELECTRONICS & TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE) : "The development of this technology could pave the way for Korea to join the ranks of the leading nations in the medical equipment market dominated by the U.S. and Europe."

The researchers are now developing a technology that can reduce radiation in CT scans as well.