Inspirational Women in Radiology

Throughout history, women have played a pivotal role in shaping the industry of radiology. From groundbreaking discoveries to impactful leadership, these women have left their mark on the field, contributing to advancements that elevated the industry and paved the way for the future of healthcare. Here are five women that made a significant impact on the field of radiology and continue to inspire young women and aspiring medical professionals worldwide.

Helen Brooke Taussig

Helen Brooke Taussig had to battle many complications during her career, including her deafness, dyslexia, and gender. While primarily recognized as a pioneering cardiologist, Taussig made substantial contributions to the medical field. Taussig developed the method of using x-rays and fluoroscopy simultaneously to examine a baby’s heart and lungs. With the help of other professionals, Taussig created the Blalock-Thomas-Taussig shunt and discovered the Taussig-Bing syndrome, which has helped save thousands of babies and children. Her work has impacted and elevated pediatric cardiology to what we know now.

Tikvah Alper

As a renowned radiobiologist, Tivkah Alper overcame many challenges to become acknowledged in the field of radiation biology. Despite opposition and losing her position as head of the Biophysics Section in the National Physics Laboratory in South Africa, Alper received a grant at the MRC Experimental Radiopathology Research Unit in London. Due to her research in radiobiology, Alper gained international attention after discovering the lack of nucleic acid in the infectious agent in Scrapie, and her findings led to the understanding and development of the Prion theory. Her impact on radiobiologists spanned several generations on a global scale.

Edith Quimby

Known as one of the founders of nuclear medicine, Edith Quimby first started off as an assistant physicist to Gioacchino Failla, who she continued to work with for 40 years. Her research and efforts to quantify different aspects of the radiobiological effects of x-rays led her to become one of the first women scientists to earn recognition for her contributions to radiology. Her pivotal research and radiation dose calculation methodologies set the standard for many physicians and physicists.

Hedvig Hricak

A renowned radiologist, Hedvig Hricak has made significant contributions to the field of genitourinary radiology. By establishing the clinical value of MRI for prostrate, kidney, and gynecological cancer, Hricak has become a pioneer in the field of molecular imaging. As the chair of the National Academies committee, Hricak endorsed NASA’s proposal to set a single, lifetime limit of allowable radiation exposure for astronauts. Hricak's impactful work will continue to influence and impact the field radiology.

Nola Hylton

A pioneer of using MRI to locate tumors for the detection, diagnosis, and staging of breast cancer, Nola Hylton is an American oncologist who is also the Professor of Radiology and Director of the Breast Imaging Research Group in California. Her recent work focuses on PET and MRI to personalize breast cancer treatment. Her commitment to advancing the understanding of breast cancer through innovative imaging approaches shows her dedication to improving patient outcomes. Hylton’s continuous work and research will shape new breast imaging technologies in the future.

Acknowledging Every Woman’s Impact

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, let us acknowledge these remarkable women and their pivotal role in elevating radiology. Their stories inspire not only the current generation of women in the field of radiology but also pave the way for aspiring women in science and medicine. Let us know who you think is a vital part of radiology or comment a woman who inspires you today.