Hematological profile change in radiation field workers

Objectives: This study focuses on the hematological parameters change and age in radiation field workers. The study aimed to identify the effect of radiation on hematological parameters and their relation to age and duration of the experience in radiation field workers. Material and Methods: This study was conducted in the Physiology research center in collaboration with thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS), Ahvaz, Iran during the year of 2008. In this study, a group of 60 males occupationally exposed radiotherapeutic and diagnostic workers with age ranging from 25-48 working for the last 14 years on an average were recruited. They were matched with a group of 60 healthy control subjects in the same range of age, gender and ethnic origin. Both groups met with exclusion criteria as per standard. Hematological parameters were observed by using a blood cell auto analyzer. Results: The platelet and white blood cell count were decreased in radiation field workers with increased duration of exposure. Radiation field workers showed a statistically significant decrease (p<0.01 and p<0.05) in the mean values of platelets count and White blood cells, respectively when in comparison to controls. However, no significant difference was observed in the rest of hematological parameters between the groups. Conclusion: The present study suggests that radiation field workers should regularly get periodic medical surveillance including hematological profile with a focus on white blood cells and platelet. These measures would help to decrease the effects of occupational hazards of radiation and detect the disease in initial stage when treatment is achievable in the workers.