Effect of exposure to X-ray radiation on the hematological system and immunoglobulin concentration of customs clearance workers in Alexandria port

ABSTRACT

Based on scientific evidence, any exposure to radiation can be harmful; there is no safe dose, i.e. no threshold-dose. This study was conducted to reveal the effect of low dose radiation on the haematological system, as the blood cells are classified as the most radiosensitive tissue in the human body. The inference population included 40 male Customs Clearance Workers [CCWs] from Alexandria seaport; they were exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation while using various types of electronic and imaging machines for security purposes. .The comparative population included 40 male workers; they were not exposed to ionizing radiation or radioactive hazardous materials in their work environment. All CCWs and unexposed workers were subjected to an interviewing schedule, physical examination, and haematological investigations, which included a complete blood count and IgG, IgA and IgM concentrations. In the present study the prevalence of general manifestations such as pallor, hair loss, repeated infections and bouts of fever were higher among CCWs compared with unexposed workers. Neurological manifestations namely, headache and fatigue were prevailing among CCWs. Haematological investigations revealed that the mean total leucocytic count was significantly decreased among CCWs. On the other hand the mean values of RBC and platelet counts were not significantly lowered among CCWs. Moreover, the differential picture showed a significant depression in the mean percent of circulating lymphocytes among CCWs. Regarding the immunoglobulin concentrations, the present study revealed no significant difference between CCWs and unexposed workers regarding their serum IgG, IgM and IgA concentrations, Furthermore, there were significant negative correlations between the total leucocytic count and both the duration of occupation and smoking index, and between the mean percent of circulating lymphocytes and duration of occupation. CCWs at Alexandria seaport although assumed to be exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation, yet significant affection of some basic blood parameters was evident. Thus, personal monitoring for X-ray radiation and increasing the level of protection for CCWs is of utmost importance