Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation Exposure and Its Impact on Skin Aging Among Healthcare Workers.

Abstract

Background: Ionizing radiation (IR) is a occupational risk for healthcare professionals, which can result in a range of health issues.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the relationship between low-dose IR exposure and the development of early aging-related skin wrinkles in healthcare workers.

Methods: In the current cross-sectional study, 70 health workers exposed to low-dose ionizing radiation for at least five years were compared with 70 non-exposed health workers. Skin wrinkles of the participants were assessed by Lemperle Wrinkle Assessment Scale and statistical analysis comparing wrinkle score between the exposed to control was done.

Results: There were no significant differences in sociodemographic factors and Fitzpatrick skin types between the radiation-exposed healthcare workers and the control group. The Lemperle Wrinkle Assessment Scale scores revealed significant differences, with radiation workers showing higher scores in all wrinkle categories, including horizontal forehead lines, glabellar frown lines, periorbital lines, preauricular lines, cheek folds, nasolabial folds, upper and lower lip lines, corner of the mouth lines, marionette lines, and labiomental creases (all p < 0.00001), and for horizontal neck folds (p = 0.00152).

Conclusion: This is the first study to investigate health care workers with long-term low-dose IR exposure for skin wrinkles, a visible consequence of skin aging. Chronic low-dose IR exposure can lead to increased skin wrinkles, representative of advanced skin aging in health workers. These findings underscore the need for enhanced protective measures and regular monitoring for individuals exposed to occupational radiation.