The American College of Radiology (ACR) is proud to co-sponsor the 2018 International Day of Radiology (IDoR), in recognition of the tremendous advances in modern health care made possible by radiology. The celebration, taking place this Thursday, Nov. 8, is a joint effort of the ACR, the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and the European Society of Radiology (ESR).

“In the 123 years since the discovery of the X-ray, medical imaging has continued to advance modern medicine, drive technological innovation and enable more effective and efficient patient care,” said William T. Thorwarth Jr., MD, FACR, Chief Executive Officer, American College of Radiology. “The International Day of Radiology celebrates the lives saved and extended worldwide by radiology and highlights the ongoing work of our members and their colleagues in research, diagnosis and treatment.”

Radiology is playing a key role in the prevention and early detection of cancers. Since regular mammography use started in the 1980s, breast cancer deaths in women have plunged more than 40%—and radiology professionals are helping to educate women about the importance of having a breast cancer risk assessment by age 30 and annual mammography every year beginning at age 40. Research shows that screening older current and former smokers each year with CT scans reduces lung cancer deaths by up to 61% in women and 26% in men. And virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) is as accurate as standard colonoscopy in detecting pre-cancerous polyps, attracts more people to be screened, lowers costs and is covered by major insurers.

IDoR 2018 also includes celebrations during National Radiologic Technology Week (Nov. 4–10, 2018). Radiologic technologists play a vital role in every radiology department and practice, and engage directly with patients. As health care becomes more patient-focused, the ACR will continue to work with like-minded organizations, like the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), to ensure all radiology professionals have the support they need to deliver the best patient experience possible.