Health Risks of Low Dose Of Ionizing Radiation Among Health Care Providers at ain Shams University Hospitals

Introduction Ionizing radiation (IR) is an occupational hazard that can induce many health risks on exposed health care workers (HCWs). However, the health risks of low dose (below 100mSv) are controversial due to a lack of direct evidence on human. Aim of work To identify the health risks of exposure to low dose of ionizing radiation and its effect on general health status and to assess oxidative stress status of health care workers (HCWs) exposed to IR at Ain Shams University hospitals. Materials and methods A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted including 50 HCWs from different departments of Ain Shams University hospitals: exposed group (exposed to IR for at least I year) (No = 25) and matched unexposed control group (No = 25). Both groups were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Assessment of health care workers' oxidative stress status was done for both groups by measure level of plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level as biomarker for lipid peroxidation. Complete blood count was done for both groups. Recording readings of personal exposure to IR by badge film dosimeter after approval from workplace authority was also done. Results Regarding general health status and wellbeing of workers, most of exposed group had perception of average health status, while most of unexposed group had perception of good health status. A significantly higher sickness absenteeism during the last 6 months was found among the exposed group and a significant adverse health effects, were recorded among exposed group compared to control group as hair fall, musculoskeletal pain, pain in upper abdomen, constipation, decreased visual acuity, in addition to easily agitated. During the last 30 days exposed group had significantly higher frequencies of GIT disturbances and common cold or infections in comparison to unexposed group. The results showed that IR exposed group had the more oxidative stress status (higher level of plasma MDA) than unexposed group with significant difference (p value =0.014). Results showed also that the Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), Absolute lymphocyte and monocyte counts were significantly lower while relative basophile % was significantly higher among exposed group in comparison to unexposed group (although all parameters were within normal range in both groups). Conclusion Exposure to IR -even in small dose- may lead to significant health complains (adverse health effects), increase oxidative stress status and may affect general health status among exposed group compared to the non-exposed one. Recommendations Personal monitoring for ionizing radiation, periodic medical examination, and increasing level of protection for exposed workers are of utmost importance.