Chromosomal damage in workers occupationally exposed to chronic low level ionizing radiation.
Chromosomal aberrations were evaluated in cultures of peripheral lymphocytes from subjects working in diagnostic X-ray and nuclear medicine areas, exposed to electromagnetic ionizing radiation and particulate ionizing emissions, respectively. A 4-fold increase in the level of chromosomal aberrations was found between the exposed and control groups without qualitative or quantitative cytogenetic differences between X-rays and nuclear medicine-exposed workers. Results are discussed in view of the early damage detection from chronic exposures particularly related to biological controls, hygienic improvements and overwork in a developing country.
Hagelström
A H
AH
Departamento de Genética, Academia Nacional de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Gorla
N B
NB
Larripa
I B
IB
D000328:Adult; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations; D002877:Chromosomes, Human / Q000528:radiation effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000528:radiation effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013997:Time Factors