Students educate mothers about effects of radiation through breastfeeding

Posted on November 20, 2019

On the 1 August 2019, the Radiography group travelled to Daspoort Clinic to educate mothers and pregnant women about the effects of radiation on the mother and child during breastfeeding. The group explained the different aspects of radiography, radiation protection, risks and the radiation each modality gives. The group also shared symptoms of breast cancers and also explained the importance of mammography.

Mothers and future mothers had an opportunity to ask questions about radiation and potential effects on breast-feeding. There was a perception that radiation affects the production of breastmilk but the experts managed to dispel the myth. They also informed the mothers and mothers-to-be that it is safe to breastfeed their children after x-rays were taken.

The engagement provided key lessons for the radiography group and served as a reminder that educating communities is essential towards encouraging regular diagnostic x-rays and services.

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