Articles by Z&Z Medical

Every February, Go Red for Women® shines a spotlight on a critical reality: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, yet it is still widely misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. Go Red for Women is about education, advocacy, and action—empowering women to understand their risks, recognize symptoms, and receive the care they need. But it’s also an important moment to recognize the healthcare professionals—many of them women—who care for heart patients every day, often while facing occupational health risks of their own.

Heart Health Looks Different for Women. Heart disease doesn’t always present the same way in women as it does in men. Women are more likely to experience:

• Atypical or subtle symptoms
• Delayed diagnosis
• Different risk profiles related to hormones, pregnancy, and menopause

This makes accurate imaging, timely intervention, and safe diagnostic environments especially important in women’s cardiovascular care. From echocardiography and CT to fluoroscopy-guided procedures and interventional cardiology, imaging plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing heart disease in women.

Where Imaging, Intervention, and Radiation Safety Intersect. Cardiology and interventional imaging environments often rely on Fluoroscopy, C-arms, and prolonged imaging procedures.  While essential, they also expose clinicians and patients to ionizing radiation, particularly during long and/or complex cases.  Women make up a significant portion of cath lab staff, Interventional radiology teams, Cardiovascular technologists, and Nurses and imaging professionals These professionals often spend hours in lead aprons, balancing patient care with personal health risks such as musculoskeletal strain and cumulative radiation exposure. Properly fitted radiation protection, thoughtful garment selection, and consistent safety practices help ensure that those caring for women’s hearts are protected too.

Protection Is Part of Prevention. At Z&Z Medical, we believe that protection is an extension of prevention. That means supporting Radiation protection solutions designed for comfort and performance. Safety practices that reduce unnecessary exposure, and Awareness initiatives that prioritize long-term health. Go Red for Women reminds us that heart health isn’t a single day or diagnosis—it’s a lifelong commitment. And that commitment includes protecting the people behind the imaging equipment, the procedures, and the care.

This Go Red for Women Day we proudly stand with clinicians, patients, and advocates working to Raise Awareness that may Improve Outcomes and Protect women’s hearts—inside and outside the imaging suite.  

Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as radiation protection aprons, thyroid collars, and accessories plays a critical role in protecting healthcare professionals from occupational exposure to ionizing radiation.

Ionizing radiation—including X-ray and gamma radiation—carries enough energy to cause cellular damage over time. In environments such as cardiology, interventional radiology, cath labs, electrophysiology, vascular imaging, and fluoroscopy, consistent exposure makes radiation protection essential—not optional.

For decades, lead-based shielding has been the standard due to its density and effectiveness. Today, lead-free alternatives are increasingly available, offering lighter-weight options designed to reduce fatigue while maintaining protection.

So what’s the real difference between lead and lead-free radiation protection garments? Let’s break it down.

The Evolving Landscape of Radiation Protection

When evaluating radiation protection garments, healthcare facilities will typically see both traditional lead aprons and lead-free (or non-lead composite) aprons offered by major manufacturers.

Lead-Based Radiation Protection

Lead aprons contain an internal layer of lead designed to attenuate ionizing radiation. Most lead aprons range from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm lead equivalence. Clinical studies consistently support their effectiveness. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Orthopaedic Trauma found that 0.5 mm lead aprons can attenuate up to 99% of scatter radiation, making them highly reliable across a wide range of procedures. Lead’s primary advantage is its high atomic number and density, which allows it to efficiently absorb and block X-ray and gamma radiation. The primary drawback? Weight.

Lead-Free Radiation Protection: How Does It Work?

Lead-free garments do not contain elemental lead. Instead, they rely on composite materials made from alternative high-density metals such as:

• Tungsten

• Bismuth

• Antimony

• Barium

• Tin

These materials are layered or combined to mimic the shielding effectiveness of lead while reducing overall garment weight. According to research published in the Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, these materials can achieve similar attenuation values when properly engineered and tested. In many cases, a 0.5 mm lead-free apron is rated to perform comparably to a 0.5 mm lead apron, though performance can vary depending on radiation energy levels and beam quality.

Performance Differences: Lead vs. Lead-Free

While lead-free garments perform well in many clinical scenarios, studies show some important distinctions.

• A study in the European Journal of Radiology found that lead-free aprons perform similarly to lead at lower energies (below ~90 kVp).

• At higher radiation energies, traditional lead demonstrated slightly better attenuation performance.

• Other studies have shown pure lead to outperform composite materials in certain low- and high-intensity conditions.

Bottom line: Both options are effective, but procedure type, radiation intensity, and exposure duration matter when selecting the best garment. This is why reviewing manufacturer testing data and consulting your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) is essential.

Why Some Clinicians Choose Lead-Free Garments

One of the main reasons clinicians consider lead-free PPE is weight reduction. Research published in the Journal of Radiation Physics and Chemistry found that some lead-free garments are 13–25% lighter than comparable lead aprons. Over long procedures or extended shifts, that reduction can significantly impact:

• Fatigue

• Shoulder and back strain

• Joint stress

A 2022 study reported that clinicians wearing heavy garments for prolonged periods frequently experienced musculoskeletal discomfort. The study also noted that two-piece systems (vests and skirts) and lighter materials helped reduce strain. Lead-free garments may be especially beneficial for:

• Long interventional procedures

• Staff wearing PPE for multiple hours daily

• Clinicians with prior orthopedic concerns

Lead-Free vs. Lead-Safe: Understanding the Terminology

Lead-Safe

“Lead-safe” means the garment contains lead, but the lead is fully encapsulated within protective outer layers—typically vinyl, rubber, or nylon—preventing direct exposure. X-ray lead aprons are considered safe when properly maintained and inspected. Lead-based PPE has been used successfully for decades and is supported by radiation safety guidelines that follow ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

Lead-Free

“Lead-free” means the garment contains no elemental lead. This eliminates concerns about lead exposure during wear or disposal. However, it’s important to note that some alternative materials used in lead-free garments (such as antimony) may carry their own exposure risks if not properly enclosed. Like lead garments, lead-free PPE relies on durable outer layers to ensure safety.

Both options are considered safe when manufactured, maintained, and inspected correctly.

Cost, Environmental Impact, and Practical Considerations

When comparing lead and lead-free radiation protection, facilities should consider:

Cost: Lead aprons are generally less expensive than lead-free alternatives. Lead-free garments often carry higher upfront costs due to advanced materials and manufacturing processes.

Environmental Impact: Lead-free garments are often marketed as more environmentally friendly and may simplify end-of-life disposal. That said, lead aprons can still be disposed of safely when proper EPA-regulated protocols are followed, but recycling fees will apply.

Clinical Performance: Traditional lead remains the gold standard for maximum attenuation, particularly in higher-energy imaging environments.

Is Lead Shielding Still Used Today?

Yes—very much so!  Confusion often arises from changes in dental X-ray guidelines. In February 2024, the American Dental Association (ADA) updated its guidance, stating that lead aprons are not necessary for routine dental imaging when modern, well-calibrated equipment is used. However, this guidance does not apply to medical imaging environments such as fluoroscopy, C-arms, or interventional procedures, where radiation exposure levels are significantly higher. Lead shielding remains widely used and recommended in many medical applications.

Comfort, Fit, and Ergonomics Matter

Whether lead or lead-free, proper fit is critical. Key considerations include:

• Correct sizing of shoulder panels and armholes

• Adequate thyroid and organ coverage

• Even weight distribution

Studies published in PLOS One have shown that two-piece vest/skirt systems can significantly reduce shoulder pressure and fatigue compared to single-piece aprons. Fit and design often have just as much impact on comfort as material choice.

Making an Evidence-Based Choice

There is no single “best” radiation protection garment for every situation. The right choice depends on:

• Procedure type

• Radiation intensity

• Duration of wear

• Clinician comfort

• Facility safety protocols

At Z&Z Medical, we believe radiation protection decisions should be evidence-based, procedure-specific, and clinician-focused. Whether lead or lead-free, the goal is the same: protect the people who protect patients.  Email us at info@zzmedical.com with any Radiation Protection Question you may have, or you can visit our website to learn more.

February isn’t just another month on the calendar—it’s a powerful reminder of why protection, prevention, and people matter in healthcare.

At Z&Z Medical, February brings together several meaningful observances:

• American Heart Month
• Cardiovascular Professionals Appreciation Week (Feb 8–15)
• Heart Failure Awareness Week (Feb 8–15)
• Go Red for Women® Day (Feb 6)
• Valentine’s Day (Feb 14)

Each of these moments highlights one shared truth: Healthy hearts depend on safe environments, informed teams, and the right protection—every single day.

Where Radiation Protection Meets Heart Health: Cardiology, interventional radiology, cath labs, electrophysiology, and vascular imaging teams are among the most consistently exposed professionals when it comes to radiation due to long procedures, repeat exposure. and minimal margin for error

That’s why radiation protection isn’t just about compliance—it’s about long-term heart health, occupational safety, and career longevity.

Z&Z Medical proudly supports cardiovascular teams with:

• Radiation protection apparel & accessories
• Shielding solutions for staff and patients
• Positioning and workflow tools that reduce repeat imaging
• Visual safety reminders that reinforce daily habits

Because protecting caregivers ultimately protects patients. At Z&Z Medical, we believe:

• Protecting staff is an act of appreciation
• Radiation safety is a form of prevention
• The right tools can change outcomes—for patients and professionals

Throughout this month, we’ll be sharing insights, reminders, and solutions that support heart health, radiation protection, and the people who make healthcare possible. Because when you protect the caregiver, you protect the heart of healthcare itself.

We can train. We can educate. But sometimes — we just need a reminder.

That’s why we’re introducing our NEW Shield Up Radiation Protection Reminder Signs as part of our ongoing safety initiatives. In busy imaging environments, staff often step into rooms “just for a moment ” without their radiation protection. Those moments still matter. A quick visual prompt at the right place can make the difference between exposure and protection. These high-visibility reminder signs encourage staff to pause and grab their Lead apron, Thyroid collar, and Lead glasses before entering rooms where x-ray is in use.

Where These Signs Make the Biggest Impact

• Fluoroscopy control rooms
• Interventional Radiology & Cath Lab control areas
• OR entrances
• Above OR scrub sinks
• Near scrub sinks in imaging departments
• And anywhere decisions are made quickly is exactly where reminders work best.

Why This Matters

Radiologic technologists are usually vigilant — but other clinical teams may not be. These signs help reinforce a shared expectation of protection without confrontation. It’s a simple step toward a stronger radiation safety culture.

Order these signs for your department today and start changing the safety culture in your department!

When it comes to radiation safety, children require special consideration. Their developing bodies are sensitive to radiation exposure, making proper shielding not just recommended—but essential. At Z&Z Medical, we offer a full line of pediatric radiation protection garments designed specifically for infants, children, and teenagers, helping imaging departments protect their smallest patients with confidence.

Why Pediatric Radiation Protection Is Different. Children are not simply “small adults.” Their growing organs, higher cell division rates, and longer lifetime exposure risk, all increase the importance of properly sized, well-fitted radiation protection garments. Using adult aprons on pediatric patients can lead to poor coverage, excessive weight, and discomfort or improper positioning. That’s why pediatric-specific radiation protection matters.

Complete Pediatric Radiation Protection — All Ages Covered

Z&Z Medical offers radiation protection solutions for Infants & Babies with small-scale sizing for neonatal and pediatric imaging that is designed to protect without restricting movement. We also have protection solutions for Children with proper torso and thyroid coverage, and comfortable, easy-to-position designs. We even have protective garments for the smaller Teenagers. Youth-specific sizing that bridges pediatric and adult needs and more comfortable alternatives to the oversized larger adult aprons

Our pediatric radiation protection lineup includes Pediatric lead aprons, Pediatric thyroid collars, Pediatric gonadal shields, Custom pediatric sizing options, and Lightweight materials for comfort and compliance. We represent top national radiation protection manufacturers, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance with current standards.

Expert Help Makes the Difference! Choosing the right pediatric radiation protection can be challenging. Our team helps facilities Select appropriate sizes for each age group and ensure proper coverage without excess weight. We help Navigate compliance and safety considerations and find quick ship options when replacements are needed fast. Whether you need immediate in-stock pediatric garments or help planning a long-term radiation safety program, we’re here to help.

When Protecting the Most Vulnerable Patients - Radiation protection is about more than compliance—it’s about care. By using proper pediatric radiation protection garments, imaging departments can Reduce unnecessary exposure, Improve patient comfort, Support safer imaging outcomes, and Reassure parents and caregivers.

Ready to Learn More? Have questions about pediatric radiation protection or need help selecting the right garments? Email us at: info@zzmedical.com and request a free consultation to speak with a radiation safety expert.