ABC | Volume 112, Nº4, April 2019

Original Article Barbosa et al Prevalence of lens opacity Arq Bras Cardiol. 2019; 112(4):392-399 Figure 2 – Subcapsular cataract in a young interventional cardiologist. radiation, with the PSC type more frequently correlated with ionizing radiation. 21-23 The increase in the prevalence of cataract was identified with the increase in radiation doses and previously reported in literature review studies. Uncertainties about a radiation threshold that could induce lens opacity still exist. The latency period between irradiation and development of lens opacity is uncertain. 24 The LOCS III grading system is considered relevant in these types of studies and have been used to compare recent data obtained from occupationally exposed individuals and atomic bomb survivors. 24 In Brazil, interventional cardiology has played a prominent, internationally recognized role. Nevertheless, so far, there is no study on the prevalence of cataract among professionals or even in several areas of interventional Figure 3 – Frequency (%) of use of lead shields placed laterally to the fluoroscopy table by interventionists (n = xx). 25 26 43 Unavailability of protective devices Regular users Eventual users Figure 4 – Frequency (%) of use of lead glasses by interventionists (n = xx). 22 32 23 50 Unavailability of protective devices Regular users Eventual users Non-users due to ergonomic reasons 395