The Impact of Long-Term Occupational Radiation Exposure on Thyroid Health Among Radiographers in Oman

Abstract

The accumulative long occupational radiation exposure experienced by radiographers and the following consequential adverse effects have been an alarm for years. Health concerns included radiation induced skin injury, cataract development, cardiovascular and thyroid disorders. Thyroid and bone marrow are particularly sensitive to ionizing radiation. Long-term exposure to radiation can significantly impact thyroid functions, leading to various thyroid disorders over time.

This study aimed to evaluate the relation between long term exposures to ionizing radiation and the increased risk of thyroid dysfunction over time among radiographers in Oman. This was confirmed by analysis of thyroid hormones measurement; mean serum levels of T3 (triiodothyronine) (2.5 ± 0.9 pmol/L, p < 0.05 ) and T4 (thyroxine) (5.1 ± 1.22 pmol/L, p<0.01) which showed significant drops as compared to normal level range. A significant increase in the mean serum TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels of the subjects of the study r(16.5 plus/minus 1.22 * m(IU) / L, p < 0.001) as compared to the normal level range.

Our results suggest prolonged exposure can lead to damaging effects of the thyroid gland and this could be explained by structural and functional changes in the thyroid tissue. Understanding the pathogenesis of these disorders is crucial for developing strict protective guideline measures for radiographers.