Workers in nuclear facilities who are exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation experience an increased risk of cancer-related deaths, according to a study conducted by researchers from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and partner institutions. The study, which followed up on over 300,000 nuclear industry workers for an average of nearly 35 years, found that the mortality rate due to cancer increased by more than 50% per gray (Gy) of low-dose ionizing radiation exposure. The findings highlight the need for strengthened radiation protection measures for workers and the general public, as public exposure to ionizing radiation has increased in recent decades. The study's results may also inform decisions about medical uses of ionizing radiation.
Thu, 17 Aug 2023 10:11:28 GMT | IARC