How much nuclear waste is from the medical field?

Medical applications contribute a relatively small percentage of overall nuclear waste compared to other sectors, such as energy production. It is estimated that about 3-5% of the total radioactive waste in the United States comes from medical sources, primarily from the use of radionuclides in diagnostic imaging, cancer treatments, and research. This waste typically consists of short-lived isotopes and is often managed through specialized disposal methods to minimize environmental impact.