Global Variations in Patient Radiation Exposure for Coronary Artery Disease Diagnosis: A Synthesized Review of the INCAPS 4 Findings

MedXY Editorial Team•Mar 2, 2026•Cardiology

The INCAPS 4 study reveals significant global disparities in radiation dose for noninvasive coronary artery disease (CAD) imaging, with median doses for CCTA being particularly high in low-income regions.
Nuclear cardiology (SPECT and PET) generally achieves higher adherence to guideline-recommended dose limits (≤9 mSv) compared to CCTA.
An inverse relationship exists between a country’s income level and the patient radiation dose, with the highest exposures observed in Africa and Latin America.
The findings emphasize a critical global need for modernized equipment, standardized protocols, and specialized training to ensure diagnostic quality without excessive radiation risk.

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This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.

The INCAPS 4 study reveals significant global disparities in radiation dose for noninvasive coronary artery disease (CAD) imaging, with median doses for CCTA being particularly high in low-income regions.
Nuclear cardiology (SPECT and PET) generally achieves higher adherence to guideline-recommended dose limits (≤9 mSv) compared to CCTA.
An inverse relationship exists between a country’s income level and the patient radiation dose, with the highest exposures observed in Africa and Latin America.
The findings emphasize a critical global need for modernized equipment, standardized protocols, and specialized training to ensure diagnostic quality without excessive radiation risk.