Chromosome aberrations in radiation workers

Two independent studies of the incidence of chromosome aberrations in blood lymphocytes in radiation workers who are regularly exposed but below the current recommended limit of 50 mSv (5 rem) per year are discussed. One study examined blood samples over a ten-year period from 200 men engaged in servicing nuclear-powered submarines. The other study was performed by NRPB and 146 radiation workers and 50 unexposed controls were examined. The results of the two studies were in close agreement both concluding that exposure to permitted doses of radiation over a period of years increases the incidence of chromosome aberrations in blood lymphocytes and that the dose-response relationship at these low doses appears to be linear. The implications of these findings in relation to the induction of cancer and serious hereditary disorders are discussed. (U.K.)