Radiologic Technologists at Increased Risk of Melanoma

Researchers at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland have found that the risk of melanoma is elevated among radiologic technologists who have had increased exposure to radiation.

The study involved 68,588 medical radiation workers. Established risk factors such as age, skin, eye and hair colour, family history of melanoma and sunlight exposure were significantly associated with the development of melanoma.

Melanoma risk was elevated 8.6-fold among those who began work as a radiologic technologist before 1940 compared to those beginning in 1970 or later. Those who worked as radiologic technologists for 5 or more years prior to 1950 had a 2.4-fold increased risk.

The researchers concluded that the totality of research on the health effects of radiation makes it clear how important it is that medical radiation workers follow protective measures and guidelines.

(Source: International Journal of Cancer 2003; 103: 556-562)