Alteraciones cromosómicas en trabajadores ocupacionalmente expuestos a radiación ionizante del Hospital Provincial General Docente de Riobamba (HPGDR)

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to determine the chromosomal alterations caused by exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation at the General Teaching Provincial Hospital of Riobamba. It was carried out in compliance with the requirements of the Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador and with the collaboration of the Genetics and Genomics Research Centre of the Equinoctial Technological University. Using conventional cytogenetics, the technique of cultivation, harvesting and extension of the samples of the 10 participants in this study was carried out. 500 metaphases were counted from the group exposed to ionizing radiation, finding chromosomal aberrations with a difference of 6.5% to the control group. In addition, structural chromosomal characteristics, percentage of chromosomal fragility and accumulated dose were analyzed. The result was that there is a correlation between accumulated dose and percentage of chromosomal fragility, obtaining a value of r = 0.4 (Pearson's correlation coefficient) which indicates a positive correlation with these last two variables. A large number of satellite associations were observed, with a greater predisposition of the chromosomes to this type of alteration, 30 centromere overlaps, 41 gaps and 12 chromosome breaks. It is suggested to control the work areas, hours of exposure to ionizing radiation and control in dosimetric history of the EOP and to complement it with cytogenetic examinations to collate data and prevent adverse health effects in exposed workers.