Cytogenetic alterations in the conversion facility workers

Abstract

Chromosomal aberrations analysis was performed in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the two groups of Siberian Chemical plant employers – sublimation factory staff and the administration. Chromosomal aberrations frequency (7,24±0,048 per 100 cells) in the sublimation factory staff were significantly (р0,001) increased relative to the administration group (1,29±0,66 per 100 cells) mainly because increasing of single fragments. This type of chromosomal aberrations in staff was 6,4±0,41 per 100 cells vs. 1±0,52 in the administration group (p0,001). The rates of chromatid and chromosome types of chromosomal aberrations were comprised. The high level of chromosomal aberrations in the sublimation factory staff indicate to mutagenicity of occupational factors of the factory. Low level of chromosome type of chromosomal aberrations indicate an absence of important radiation exposure. Bias of the chromatid type of chromosomal aberrations allows proposing of the leading role of non-radiation factors in the formation of genotoxic effects in the sublimation factory staff. It draws attention to issues of chemical safety of the enterprise. These results suggest the need for regular cytogenetic monitoring at the Siberian Chemical Plant, even under favorable radiological situation.