THE EFFECTS OF RADIATION ON HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF THE TECHNICIANS IN X-RAY DEPARTMENTS OF DIFFERENT HOSPITALS IN BENGHAZI-LIBYA

Abstract

Background: X-ray is a type of ionized radiation. Long exposure leads to serious hazard to workers. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of radiation on the workers’ blood parameters and determine its correlations with age, gender, qualification levels and years of experience. Methods: a cross sectional study carried out in 5 Hospitals in Benghazi City from February to May 2018. A total of 76 individuals divided into two groups; 50 exposed workers (group A) and 27 non-exposed (group B). Demographic data collected by using a multiple-choice questionnaire. Blood samples were collected to investigate complete blood counts (CBC) for the participants. Results: There was a decrease in neutrophils (NEU) and haematocrit (HCT) values and an increase in MCHC and lymphocytes (LYM) levels. In addition, there were significant differences between two groups in white blood cells (WBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (P=0.04, 0.02, and 0.02, respectively). On the other hand, the values of WBC, platelets (PLT) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) were controversial among workers; there was elevations in some workers and reduction in others. Moreover, there were a positive relationship between age and years of experience with MCHC counts. However, the level of worker's education did not have any association with effects of x-ray radiation on workers’ blood. Conversely, there is association between workers’ gender and MCT, PLT and MCH. Conclusion: exposure to x-ray causes haematological disturbances on the exposed group which may lead subsequently to several health hazards including anaemia and cancer.