PERSONAL AND PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF RADIATION RISKS

Risks often are accompanied by benefits, which are not attainable without incurring the risks. When a person voluntarily decides to take a risk, he or she assumes responsibility for the outcome, whether beneficial or adverse. The converse concerning involuntary risks is also true, with the result that many people oppose involuntary risks with their threat of adverse outcomes. Medical exposure to radiation can be perceived as both an involuntary and voluntary risk. In American culture, the entertainment and news media have contributed greatly to the public's abhorrence of radiation, radioactivity, and nuclear energy. Because people respond emotionally rather than intellectually to risk information, the risks of radiation exposure are best communicated by someone who is knowledgeable, is recognized as a health expert, is trustworthy, and has no conflict of interest but a stake in the community, such as a community physician. Such a spokesperson must respond first to perceptions of risks and underlying emotions, since use of only facts often fails to counteract fears. With trust established, a rational discussion of risks and benefits can begin.