International Day of Radiology - International Day of Radiology, which coincides with the anniversary of the discovery of x-ray, highlights the role of medical imaging in modern technology.

International Day of Radiology 2024 – November 8, 2024

The International Day of Radiology (IDoR) is a yearly event commemorated on November 8, the anniversary of the discovery of x-rays, and promotes radiology’s role in healthcare. The European Society of Radiology (E.S.R.), the Radiological Society of North America, and the American College of Radiology (A.C.R.) jointly launched it in 2012. Nearly 200 national sub-specialty and allied organizations around the world recognize and celebrate the International Day of Radiology. Every year, a theme is chosen that focuses on various radiology specialties.

History of International Day of Radiology

Radiology, a discipline of medicine, utilizes medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases that affect both animals and humans. On November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, a German mechanical engineer and physicist, discovered x-rays by accident while exploring cathode rays, thereby establishing the groundwork for the medical specialty of radiology. Röntgen went on to discover and create electromagnetic radiation in the X-ray or Röntgen ray wavelength range, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901.The International Day of Radiology was established in 2011 as a follow-up to the European Day of Radiology. On February 10, 2011, the first and only European Day of Radiology (EDoR) was conducted to honor the anniversary of Röntgen’s death. The European Society of Radiology hosted the event. Following the European Day of Radiology’s success, the E.S.R. collaborated with the Radiological Society of North America and the American College of Radiology to create the International Day of Radiology. It was also determined that the anniversary of Röntgen’s death should be relocated to the anniversary of his discovery of the x-ray.On November 28, 2011, the three founding societies formally recognized the day during the annual Radiological Society of North America meeting in Chicago. November 8 was eventually picked, and all radiological organizations around the world commemorate it.

International Day of Radiology timeline

1895
The X-ray is Discovered

Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, a German mechanical engineer and physicist, discovers x-rays.

2011
International Day of Radiology is Ratified

On November 28, 2011, the three founding societies formally recognize the International Day of Radiology.

2011
European Day of Radiology

On February 10, 2011, the first and only European Day of Radiology (EDoR) is conducted to honor the anniversary of Röntgen's death.

2021
10 Years of International Day of Radiology

The 10th anniversary of the International Day of Radiology is celebrated on November 8.

International Day of Radiology FAQs

Can a radiologist become a doctor?

Radiologists are medical doctors who are completely licensed.

Who is the world's best radiologist?

A radiologist from the German Cancer Consortium, Alexander Radbruch.

How long does it take to get trained in radiology?

It takes 13 years of training.

How to Observe International Day of Radiology

  1. Attend a radiology program

    On this day, radiographer associations and healthcare providers hold programs to educate the public about x-rays and radiation safety. You can plan your schedule to attend one of these events.

  2. Speak with a radiologist

    Thank a radiographer or radiologist for their services. If you have a personal radiographer, you can express your gratitude by sending them an edible arrangement or a thank-you letter.

  3. Research and learn about radiography

    Learn more about radiation and how it is used to create x-rays. Continue your research by learning about Marie Curie and Raymond's contributions to radiology. Use the hashtag #WorldRadiographyDay to raise awareness about this day on social media.

5 Interesting Facts About Radiology

  1. X-ray procedure in America

    In the United States, about 150 million x-ray procedures are performed each year.

  2. Radiologic nun technologists

    Nuns made up 37% of radiologic technologists in 1927.

  3. Over 330,000 radiologic technologists

    There are over 330,000 radiologic technologists in the United States.

  4. First 3D mammogram

    In 2011, the first 3D mammography exam was performed in the United States.

  5. Radiation therapy

    In 1964, radiation therapy was designated as a specialist field.

Why International Day of Radiology is Important

  1. It honors radiographers and radiologists

    The day honors the vital role that radiographers and radiologists play in the medical field. It recognizes their dedication, hard work, and numerous contributions to modern healthcare.

  2. It is non-invasive

    This type of medical imaging allows doctors to observe what's going on inside the human body. It's a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that can be performed on both animals and people.

  3. Radiology is a rapid procedure

    Medical analyses using X-rays are non-invasive and take only a few minutes to perform. The findings of x-rays can be visible nearly instantly.

International Day of Radiology dates

Year Date Day
2022 November 8 Tuesday
2023 November 8 Wednesday
2024 November 8 Friday
2025 November 8 Saturday
2026 November 8 Sunday