Low-dose ionizing radiation and cancer risk, thyroid alteration in health professionals: A retrospective cohort study

The aim of this study was assessing the impact of Ionizing radiation (IR) exposure on thyroid function and cancer risk over an 11-year follow-up period among healthcare workers. A retrospective cohort of 585 hospital workers in Rome was carried out. Workers were categorized based on IR exposure levels in the period 2010 - 2020. Survival analysis was conducted to assess the development of thyroid abnormalities and tumors. Exposed workers exhibited a higher risk of developing thyroid alterations, notably hypothyroidism and goiter (HR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.17- 2.43), and a reduced likelihood of developing cancer (HR = 0.24, 95% CI 0.09-0.64). Gender and age were significant risk factors for thyroid alterations, with females and older individuals exhibiting higher susceptibility. This study suggests an increased thyroid issues but reduced cancer rates among exposed to low-dose IR compared to unexposed peers, underscoring the need for further research to enhance occupational health.