With the advancement in technology, ionizing radiations are widely used for various diagnoses and treatments in the biomedical field in India. X-rays, CT scans, nuclear imaging, and radiation therapies for the treatment of cancer are commonly in use. In some countries, the use of ionizing radiation is restricted by strict protocols. In contrast, in countries like India, due to a lack of awareness among patients and staff, exposure to ionizing radiation in the biomedical field is on the rise. Careless use of this technology is increasing. Doctors, nurses, and staff operating machinery that uses ionizing radiations, as well as patients, attendants, and relatives, are equally exposed to ionizing radiations. Protection from radiation is necessary for the present generation. While there may be no immediate effects in most cases, indirect harm due to DNA mutations may occur in the future. Radiations are necessary and mandatory in the treatment of patients with severe diseases, which is simply unavoidable. However, it is very important to use protective clothing and accessories for staff, patients, and their relatives. Nowadays, X-rays and CT scans with low-voltage radiation doses are being developed and used, which will cause less harm. However, it is simply not possible to avoid ionizing radiation entirely. To mitigate these dangers, lead aprons are already being used. Lead, with a high atomic number, blocks X-rays from penetrating human tissues and thus provides protection to staff. However, lead is heavy, susceptible to cracking, toxic, and uncomfortable to use. In India, there is an urgent need to develop lightweight, flexible lead-free materials for radiation protection. This review paper highlights the research done so far in the development of nanocomposites, which have shown tremendous potential to serve this purpose.

Ionizing Radiations Radiation Therapies Nuclear Imaging Lead Toxicity Nanocomposites