Occupational risk

There's conflicting evidence about the risks faced by people who regularly work with radiation.This includes nuclear power workers and medical professionals who use radioactive technology, such as X-rays and CT scanners.

Some studies have shown people working with radiation have a higher risk of problems such as cancer, heart disease and stroke, whileother studies have indicated there's a lower risk of these problems.

Improvements in safety standards mean it's now estimated only6% ofradiation workers are likely to be exposed tohigh levels of ionising radiation (100mSv or more)during their career, which should reduce the chances of problems developing.

There's also currently no evidence thatthe children of people who work with radiation have an increased risk of developing serious health conditions, such as birth defects or leukaemia.

Want to know more?

  • Health and Safety Executive: information on doses

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Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018