Problems and challenges in radiation dosimetry in Lagos

Much progress has been made in the use of ionizing radiation for the treatment of malignant diseases. The control of these diseases depends to a large extent on the type of radiation equipment used and the precision at which the radiation dose is delivered to the tumour site. The world-wide expansion of this treatment modality and the demand for greater accuracy in dosimetry prompted the World Health Organization to establish, in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), SSDLs in many parts of the world among which Lagos was designated a centre in 1976. The objective of these bodies was to enable the laboratory to cater for all dosimetric needs in the country and other parts of the West African sub-region. This paper reports on th work done so far and also highlights the various factors which have affected the full realization of accurate dose delivery in radiation therapy in Lagos. (author). 1 ref., 1 fig., 1 tab