It was on November 8, 1895, that a momentous discovery was made in science. German scientist Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen, the first ever winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics, discovered the presence of X-radiation.
While he was working as a professor of physics in Wurzburg, Bavaria, Rontgen made the serendipitous discovery while testing if cathode rays could pass through glass. He discovered a mysterious incandescent green light that could pass through solid objects and leave behind their shadows. Since he did not know what the rays were, he called them “X” (as in ‘unknown’)-rays. Roentgen realised that X-rays could pass through human tissue as well, thus revealing the bones and tissue beneath.
Soon, physicians across Europe and the United States began using X-rays to locate gunshot wounds, bone fractures, kidney stones, and swallowed objects, marking the advent of radiography in the field of medicine.
On World Radiography Day, the vital role played by radiographic imaging and therapy, while maintaining a minimum amount of radiation is highlighted. Globally, the different national radiographers’ associations and societies join the celebrations through various activities. This year the theme is: “Radiographers at the Forefront of Patient Safety.”
The huge benefits of radiology are discussed, and imaging professionals are encouraged to participate in the event through social media posts. All radiography professionals have been invited to post pictures, tweets, and posts using the hashtag #IDoR2022.
While the first World Radiography Day had been celebrated in 2012, by the European Society of Radiology (ESR), Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR), the European Day of Radiology had been celebrated previously on February 10, 2011. This date was selected to coincide with the death anniversary of Wilhem Rontgen, who passed away on February 10, 1923.