Radiation doses investigated by chromosomal aberration analysis 2016 to 2023
This report (XXVI) is a review of suspected overexposures investigated by chromosomal aberration analysis.
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During the 8 years 2016 to 2023, 19 individuals suspected of being over exposed to ionising radiation have been referred to the UK Health Security Agency (formerly Public Health England) for investigation by cytogenetic analysis. Of these 14 were related to industrial uses of radiation, 2 were from a major nuclear organisation and 3 were associated with radiation used in research institutions, education or health. No evidence of radiation exposure, as indicated by dicentric or translocation aberrations in chromosomes from blood lymphocytes, was found in 15 persons. No serious overexposures were investigated and in the remaining cases averaged whole body doses were low. Compared to the previous reporting period 2006 to 2015, overall the number of cases referred to UKHSA for cytogenetic analysis has declined by approximately 60%. In the years 2016 to 2023 the premature chromosome condensation assay has been introduced into the UKHSA laboratory and staff have participated in intercomparison exercises as part of a program to maintain a strong emergency response across Europe.