RADIOGRAPHY

Despite the importance of clinical postings in providing practical experience for radiography students of the University of Benin, various challenges hinder the students' ability to maximize the benefits of this experience. This study assessed the challenges faced by radiography students of the University of Benin during clinical postings. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was
conducted using a questionnaire distributed to 194 radiography students across three academic years. Reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha (0.71). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28, employing descriptive statistics and ANOVA for hypothesis testing. The findings revealed that time constraints (88.7%), difficulty understanding complex procedures without
guidance (85%), and limited access to equipment (74.2%) were the most significant challenges. These challenges negatively impacted students' hands-on experience, understanding of procedures, and overall progress in radiography education. Students primarily coped through self-directed learning (89.2%), seeking guidance from other healthcare professionals (82%), and
peer support (73.2%). However, only 24.8% felt adequately prepared for professional practice. Demographic factors were analyzed using ANOVA to identify significant relationships with perceived challenges. Recommendations include restructuring clinical posting schedules, establishing formal mentorship programs, implementing simulation-based education, and reducing student-to-supervisor ratios. The study provides valuable insights for improving clinical education in radiography at the University of Benin.

Chest x-ray remains a major tool for the diagnosis and management of many diseases ravaging mankind. The aim of this study is to assess the chest x-ray requests and findings in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo. A retrospective study of 1,624 patients who underwent chest x-ray examination at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo. The results showed that more females, (58%, n = 943) were referred for chest x-ray than the males, (42%, n = 681). The highest indication for chest x-rays in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital is Other, (47%, n = 762). Patients between the age bracket of (36– 50) have the highest referral for chest x-ray. Most of the chest x-ray referrals are from GPC (33% n = 542). More than half of the chest x-ray referrals (65.1%, n = ) appear radiologically normal while the remainder (34.9%, n = 174) were abnormal. The chest radiographs of 100% of those for medical exam/Routine check appeared radiologically normal. In conclusion, conventional chest x-ray remains the primary diagnostic tool for most diseases of the chest region. However appropriate clinical diagnosis should always be conducted to reduce the number of normal chest-x-rays diagnosed. Routine chest X-rays should be discouraged as they almost amount to unnecessary irradiation of patients with low diagnostic yield.

Breast cancer remains a major public health concern worldwide, with high mortality rates in
low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria due to late-stage diagnosis and limited
awareness. Mammography is a crucial screening tool for early detection, yet its utilization
remains low among Nigerian women. This study assesses the level of awareness of the
importance of mammography screening among female staff at the University of Benin, exploring the relationship between socio-demographic factors and screening uptake. A
descriptive design was employed, utilizing the Health Belief Model as a theoretical
framework. Data were collected from 306 female staff members through a structured
questionnaire adapted from the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale. The findings reveal
significant gaps in awareness and misconceptions about mammography, with over 50% of
respondents unaware of its purpose. Socio-demographic factors, including age, education, and employment status, were found to influence awareness and utilization. Key barriers
identified include fear of diagnosis, cost, cultural beliefs, and lack of time. The study
highlights the urgent need for targeted educational campaigns and policy interventions to
improve breast cancer screening uptake. These findings contribute valuable insights for
public health strategies aimed at reducing breast cancer mortality among Nigerian women. KEY WORDS: Mammography, Screening, Awareness, Utilization.