Assessment of occupational radiation exposure among radiology workers in Ghana using cytogenetic biomarkers and thermoluminescent dosimetry.

Abstract

Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation remains an important radiation protection concern among radiology workers. This study assessed cytogenetic damage among radiology workers in Ghana using the dicentric chromosome assay and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay alongside routine thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) records. Eleven occupationally exposed workers and thirteen controls were recruited. No dicentric chromosomes were observed in either group. The mean annual occupational TLD dose was 3.89 ± 2.50 mSv, below the International Commission on Radiological Protection recommended occupational dose limit. Micronucleus frequency did not differ significantly between exposed workers and controls (P = .08). Age was positively associated with micronucleus frequency (P = .02), whereas no association was found between TLD dose and micronucleus frequency (P = .09). The absence of detectable cytogenetic effects is likely attributable to occupational doses below routine detection limits. These findings highlight the need for cautious interpretation of cytogenetic biodosimetry in chronic low-dose occupational settings.