PhD
Karen Brage/Pernille Lund Hansen
UCL University College
| Project management | ||
| Project status | Open | |
| Data collection dates | ||
| Start | 01.12.2024 | |
| End | 30.11.2027 | |
Long Term Effects of Low Dose Radiation in Healthcare Professionals
Short summary
This project examines the association between occupational ionizing radiation (IR) exposure and health outcomes among Danish healthcare personnel (HP). Using national registries and personal dosimetry data, we will assess cancer, non-cancer, and reproductive pathology in exposed individuals compared to matched non-exposed groups. The study aims to improve understanding of long-term health risks from low-dose IR and inform workplace safety and public health policy.
Rationale
The health risks of occupational IR exposure remain uncertain, leaving healthcare personnel (HP) concerned about long-term effects, including fertility and overall well-being. Although safety guidelines exist, exposure is often unavoidable, and current knowledge about the impact of low-level, chronic IR exposure is limited. Most data come from high-dose nuclear events, making it difficult to assess everyday risks. With no clear threshold for harm, even minimal exposure may carry some risk. This study investigates potential health effects of occupational IR exposure in HP through three case-comparator subsets: cancer (A), non-cancerous conditions (B), and reproductive health (C). Using precise dosimetry data from 35,000 individuals in Danish registers, the research aims to improve understanding of long-term health outcomes and inform workplace safety and public health policy.
Description of the cohort
The primary cohort includes Danish HP with documented occupational exposure to (IR), identified from the dosimetry register. Three comparison groups will be included in the study. The first group consists of healthcare personnel who are not occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. The second group includes individuals from the general Danish population who have a similar level of education as the exposed HP's. The third group is the overall Danish background population, which will be used to compare health outcomes at a national level.
Data and biological material
This study uses national registers.
Collaborating researchers and departments
Danish Health Authorities - Radiation Protection; The National Research Centre for the Working Environment; Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection, France; Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark; Danish Regions; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark; Education of Radiography, University College Copenhagen; Department of Hematology, Odense University Hospital