Knowledge and attitudes towards radiation protection among medical imaging students at Ernest Cook University: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Radiation protection (RP) is vital in radiographic practice to safeguard patients and healthcare workers (HCWs) from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. Medical imaging students are frequently exposed to radiological environments during their training; therefore, their knowledge and attitudes toward RP are critical for promoting safe practice. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes toward RP among medical imaging students at Ernest Cook University (ECU) in Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 224 medical imaging students from September to December 2024. Consecutive sampling was used. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire adapted from validated RP tools. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic characteristics, institutional factors, RP knowledge, and attitudes. Knowledge levels were categorized using Bloom’s cut-off points, while attitudes were assessed on a five-point Likert scale. Chi-square tests examined associations between demographic variables and knowledge levels, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: More than half of the participants were female (52.7%), and most were second-year students (61.6%). Knowledge levels were generally low, with 70.98% scoring below 60% and only 5.8% achieving high knowledge (>80%). Major gaps were noted in identifying highly radiosensitive organs, annual dose limits, and stochastic effects. The academic year was significantly associated with knowledge level (p = 0.015). In contrast, attitudes were strongly positive, with an overall mean attitude score of 4.41. Participants strongly agreed on the importance of lead apron use, restricting access to radiation areas, adhering to safety policies, and consistently wearing dose monitors. Conclusion: Despite positive attitudes, students demonstrated low RP knowledge with notable gaps in essential safety concepts. Recommendation: Strengthening RP training through enhanced curricula, practical demonstrations, and regular CME sessions is recommended.