Meta-analysis of effects of low-dose ionizing radiation on peripheral hemocytes of occupational population

This study examines the effects of low-dose ionizing radiation on peripheral hemocytes of the occupational population, and provides evidence for occupational protective measures. Electronic databases were searched for the relevant studies. A meta-analysis was performed using Stata l2.0 software. The results indicated an increased risk of abnormal leukocyte and platelet count in radiation workers compared with that in nonradiation workers, with the combined odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (Cl) = 2.282 (1.845, 2.821) and 1.753 (1.348, 2.280), respectively, for the two groups. However, no statistically significant difference was observed in case of abnormal erythrocyte count. The subgroup analysis indicated an increase in the risk of abnormal leukocyte and platelet count (P < 0.05) with an increase in duration of service. In comparison, the increase in risk of abnormal erythrocyte count (P > 0.05) was lower. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis, taking into account the type of work engaged in, revealed an increase in the abnormal leukocyte count for workers working with medical X-rays, interventional radiology, radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, and industrial inspection. Radiation workers involved in nuclear medicine were observed to be one of the most affected groups [0R = 5.288, 95% CI (1.759, 15.892)], while those working with medical X-rays were relatively less affected [OR =1.988, 95% CI (1.178, 3.356)]. Our studies suggest that while low-dose ionizing radiation can increase the abnormal leukocyte and platelet count in radiation workers, it does not have a significant effect on the abnormal erythrocyte count. (authors)