Comparison of Hematological Parameters between Diagnostic Radiation Workers and Non-Radiation Workers

Radiation workers are exposed to chronic effects due to long-term exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation. One of the biological indicators to evaluate these chronic radiation effects is the study of the hematopoietic system. The purpose of this study is to compare the changes in blood parameters of radiology staff and staff of other wards of the hospital.

In this study, 47 radiology staff working in the radiology department of the hospital as the study group and 98 personnel in other departments as the control group were included. Demographic data including age, gender, and work experience were obtained. Hematological parameters were extracted from the complete blood count tests of participants.

The results of this study showed that the MCH and MCHC parameters significantly decreased in the male study group, whereas no significant differences were observed in the blood parameters of the female study group in comparison to those of the control group. There was a significant positive correlation between the parameters of Hemoglobin and age. There was a significant negative correlation between work experience and white blood cells, while there was a significant positive correlation between work experience and Hemoglobin.

Correlation between collective absorbed dose and changes in blood parameters is suggested for future studies. Based on the results of this study and other studies, it can be concluded that long-term exposure to low levels of radiation may change blood parameters. Therefore, regular and periodic complete blood count tests along with absorbed dose monitoring of radiation workers are recommended.