Association between occupational exposure of laboratory technicians to ionizing radiation and impact on blood biomarkers

Abstract

Diagnostic X-rays are the predominant artificial source of radiation exposure. While diagnostic X-rays offer significant benefits, the associated danger of harmful health effects is not well acknowledged. The exposure of general public is occasional and only prescription base. Nonetheless, X-ray machine operators have everyday exposure.

This case-control study aimed to assess the effect of X-rays on all haematological parameters in the laboratory technicians. The study comprised 200 healthy X-ray machine operators and their demographically matched controls. Blood samples were obtained for the evaluation of haematological parameters. Demographic information and data about effect modifiers, mediators and potential confounding variables were gathered using a standardized questionnaire. A statistically significant difference in the white blood cells (WBC) (7.39 Vs. 8.08; p = 0.005), granulocytes (4.30 Vs. 4.94; p = 0.004), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (86.6 Vs. 87.1; p = 0.042), mean platelet volume (MPV) (9.72 Vs. 9.61; p = 0.029), and plateletcrit (PCT) (0.26 Vs. 0.24; p = 0.006) was observed where the WBC, granulocytes and MCV count was decreased and the levels of MPV and plateletcrit increased in the exposed workers. The dose-response analysis indicated statistically significant difference for MPV (9.70 for the exposed group versus 9.44 for controls; p = 0.047) and plateletcrit (0.26 for the exposed group versus 0.23 for controls; p = 0.010) for exposure durations exceeding two years. Additionally, within the age category of 35 years and older, significant differences were noted in lymphocyte counts (1.82 versus 2.53; p = 0.040), platelet counts (274.2 versus 270.0; p = 0.009), and plateletcrit (0.26 versus 0.21; p < 0.001). Chronic exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation has impacted haematological parameters in the laboratory technicians, despite the use of personal protective equipment. The study findings will be valuable for policy makers to prioritize occupational safety measures.