Evaluation of Chromosome Aberrations in Radiology Technicians Exposed to Ionizing Radiation Compared toNon-Exposed Individuals from Other Healthcare Professions: Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate chromosomal aberrations in radiology technicians occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation and to compare them with non-exposed healthcare workers. Material and Methods: This observational descriptive frequency study included 36 voluntary radiology technicians working in controlled areas (from 43 eligible staff members) who provided informed consent. The control group (n=36) comprised individuals with no prior employment in radiology departments and comparable characteristics regarding age, sex, smoking status, alcohol consumption, substance use, and chronic disease. Chromosomal aberrations were analyzed in at least 20 metaphase cells per individual according to the International System for Human Cytogenomic Nomenclature (ISCN) 2020 criteria and classified as structural (gaps, breaks, deletions) or numerical (hyperploidy, hypoploidy) abnormalities. Radiation exposure levels were determined using annual personal dosimetry records. Results: In the control group, 24.3% structural, 75.7% numerical, and 28.6% total abnormalities (total=70, n=10) were identified, whereas in the exposure group, 53.7% structural, 46.3% numerical, and 27.2% total abnormalities (total=80, n=11) were detected. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in mean total abnormalities according to age, sex, educational level, or marital status (p>0.05). Conclusion: Structural chromosomal aberrations were more frequent in radiation-exposed technicians. However, no significant association was found between total aberration frequency and radiation dose. These findings emphasize the importance of regular dose monitoring in occupational radiation safety.