Health effects of occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation in healthcare workers: a systematic reviewkers: a systematic review"

Abstract

Relevance: The expanded use of magnetic resonance imaging in clinical practice has increased the number of specialists in this field and their exposure to non-ionizing radiation. Although some side effects of non-ionizing radiation have been reported in the literature, the data are fragmentary and contain little volume. There is insufficient systematic data on medical workers exposed to non-ionizing radiation over extended periods, underscoring the need for further research.

The study aimed to evaluate the health effects of occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation among healthcare workers, using published scientific evidence.

Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for 2005-2025. Eligible studies included original studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses that evaluated the health outcomes of healthcare workers exposed to non-ionizing radiation. Data on working conditions, symptoms, and diagnostic methods were collected. The survey included 21 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Differences between studies, variations in exposure measurement methods, and reliance on employee self-reports are the main limitations that can affect the accuracy of the findings.

Results: The studies included in this review consistently reported a high prevalence of short-term subjective complaints among healthcare personnel working with MRI, most commonly headache, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, sensory alterations, and cognitive problems. A relationship between dose and symptoms was observed, especially with high-field MRI systems (≥3 T).      

Conclusion: Occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation poses a significant health risk to medical workers. While non-ionizing radiation is primarily associated with acute subjective symptoms, these results underscore the importance of strengthening preventive measures, revising dose-limits, and implementing regular medical supervision to mitigate occupational risks.