Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, leaving a significant portion of the population grappling with its long-term effects. The incidence of stroke is 3.6 on average higher compared to high-income countries. This study explores the global and Saudi Arabian burden of stroke-induced disability, highlighting its prevalence, risk factors, and the need for comprehensive rehabilitation strategies. The primary source of information was the international trusted databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and the websites and reports from international organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, World Stroke Organization, and World Health Organization. The study revealed that women, especially after menopause, should be aware of their increased stroke risk and take steps to manage their risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Managing established risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol remains the cornerstone of stroke prevention for all individuals, regardless of profession. Workplace wellness programs that promote healthy lifestyles and stress management can be beneficial for employees in any occupation. Overall, stroke presents a growing public health challenge in Saudi Arabia. While the incidence may be lower than in some high-income countries, it is on the rise. More research is needed to gain a clearer picture of stroke-related disability, develop effective prevention and treatment strategies, and solidify the connection between specific occupations and stroke incidence.

Background: Computed Tomography (CT) is crucial in medical diagnosis, particularly for head examinations. Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) are pivotal in balancing diagnostic efficacy with radiation safety. International organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) provide guidelines for establishing DRLs, emphasizing their importance in optimizing radiation doses. Aim: This study aimed to establish and standardize DRLs for head CT imaging in institutional and regional settings, emphasizing the need for tailored reference levels specific to each region’s practices and standards. Method: Data collection included patient demographics, imaging parameters, and radiation dose indices, namely volume-weighted CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP). Statistical analyses were conducted to determine the median and 3rd quartile values for establishing DRLs. The results were compared with national and international benchmarks to assess variations in radiation doses across regions. Results: Demographic profiles detailed gender distributions and ages across hospitals. Imaging parameters exhibited variability in tube voltage, milliampere-seconds (mAs), pitch, scan length, and field of view (FOV). For CTDIvol, the 3rd quartile value was 65.8 mGy (range: 24.8–85.9 mGy), and for DLP, it was 1230.95 mGy·cm (range: 382.3–1189.0 mGy·cm). These values were slightly higher than the national DRLs for Saudi Arabia in 2021 and other international benchmarks, underscoring the need for further optimization and alignment of protocols. Conclusion: Optimizing and standardizing DRLs for head CT imaging is crucial for effectively managing radiation doses while ensuring diagnostic accuracy. Comparison with national and international benchmarks highlighted the importance of tailoring reference levels to regional practices and standards, ensuring patient safety without compromising diagnostic efficacy.