Evaluation of Oxidative Stress in Radiology Unit Workers

The present study showed a significant increase in oxidant levels in radiographers exposed to ionising radiation. A linear relationship was observed between oxidant level and years of exposure. An increase in total antioxidant activity in group-I was observed and this is essentially an adaptive response to ionising radiation exposure. But with increase in years of exposure to low dose ionising radiation the antioxidants are found to be used up leading to a slightly reduced level in group-II. A positive_correlation was also noticed between the levels of oxidants and antioxidants of exposed and unexposed groups. The estimation of oxidant and antioxidant status is hence a useful indicator, as redox imbalance is an immediate consequence of any biological damage caused by ionising radiation.