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 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS 
IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA. 

Nnadozie Agatha C1, Okoroiwu L. I2, Aloy-Amadi Oluchi C3., Chinedu- Eleonu 
P.O4, Nsonwu Magnus C5.and Iheanacho Malachy C6. 

1,2,3Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Imo State University, Owerri, 
Nigeria. 

4Department of Public Health Management, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. 

5Department of Optometry, Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. 

6 Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Federal Teaching Hospital, 
Owerri, Nigeria. 

Coressponding Author: Nnadozie Agatha C.  

ABSTRACT 

Background: Medical workers in the radiology unit are frequently exposed to ionizing radiation, 
raising concerns about its potential impact on renal and electrolyte balance.  

Objective: This research was a cross-sectional study aimed at determining the levels of some 
biochemical parameters among workers in the radiology unit, in Imo State, Nigeria.  

Method: This study was carried out at three major hospitals in Imo State (Federal Teaching 
Hospital, Imo specialist hospital, Owerri and Imo State Teaching Hospital Orlu). A total of 40 
individuals which comprised of 40 workers exposed to radiation and 40 non-radiation workers 
were recruited for the study. Informed consent was obtained from each patient, and 
questionnaires were administered, after which blood sample was collected. The procedure was 
carried out at the hospital laboratory using standard laboratory procedures.  The data were 
analyzed using SPSS version 27.  

Results: There was a significant increase in the mean values of creatinine (1.23±0.51)mg/dl and 
urea (42.86±9.56)mg/dl in workers exposed to radiation when compared to controls 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

(0.84±0.45)mg/dl and (28.82±5.23)mg/dl (p=0.001 and p=0.000), anda significant decrease in 
the mean value of potassium in those exposed (3.83±0.56)mmol/l when compared to controls 
(4.37±0.49)mmol/l(p=0.000).During 3-10 years of exposure, Creatinnie (0.97±0.46)mg/dl, Urea 
(36.72±11.37)mg/dl and Chloride (99.58±1.55) mmd/l showed no significant difference when 
compared to 11-18years (1.15±0.43)mg/dl, (43.58±8.47)mg/dl, and (99.94±1.46) mmd/l and 
>18years exposure (1.59±0.61)mg/dl, (46.64±5.67) mg/dl and (100.39±4.36)mmd/l (f=3.68; 
p=0.055; f= 3.11, p=00.57; and f=0.28, p=0.756). Sodium (139.43±8.61) mmd/l during 11 year 
of exposure showed no significant increase when compared to 3-10 years(135.75± 4.12) and > 
18 years of exposure (138.61±7.04) mm/dl (f=0.91, p=0.414). Bicarbonate (27.79±4.33) mmol/l 
during >18years exposure showed no significant increase when compared to 3-10years 
(26.29±5.50)mmd/l and 11-18years (25.10±5.04)mmol/l respectively (f=0.77, p=0.471).There 
was a non-significant difference  in the mean values of creatinnine (1.25±0.52) mg/dl, potassium 
(3.84±0.59) mmol/l and bicarbonate (26.44±5.26) mmol/l in male workers exposed to radiation 
when compared to females (1.14±0.59)  mg/dl, (3.66±0.40)mmol/l, (22.9±2.43) mmol/l  
respectively  ( t=1.05, p=0.492; t=0.42, p=0.080 and t=0.51, p=0.521).The mean values of Urea 
(42.46±9.94)mg/dl, Sodium (137.89±6.70) mmo/l and Chloride (99.76±2.10)mmol/l in males 
were insignificantly lower when compared to females (45.66±6.38)mg/dl, (140.66±10.96)mmol/l 
and (101.66±2.97) mmo/l(t=0.44, p=0.126; t=1.45, p=0.542; t=1.43,p=0.810; t=2.22, p=0.432; 
t1.07,p=0.518, and t=0.48, p=0.151).The mean values of potassium (3.84±0.61)mmol/l, chloride 
(99.87±1.73)mmol/l and bicarbonate (23.66±3.44)mmol/l in workers exposed to radiation of 
ages (35-50)yrs were non-significantly raised when compared to those of ages >50 yrs 
(3.76±0.51) mmol/l, (99.48±3.37) mmol/l and (22.07±1.58) mmol/l ( t=0.65, p=0.674; t = 1.79, p 
= 0.632, and t=4.89 p=0.612), while that of Creatinine (1.17±0.48) mg/dl, Urea (40.60±10.46) 
mg/dl and Sodium (137.45±6.68)  mmol/l, in workers exposed to radiation of ages (35-50) yrs 
were not significantly lowered when compared to those of ages, >50yrs 
(1.35±0.59)mg/dl,(47.40±4.94)mg/dl and (140.05±8.13)mmol/l (t=0.43,  p=0.301; t=0.69 , 
p=0.321 and t=0.79, p=0.290). 

Conclusion:This study has shown that radiation alters the levels of creatinine, urea and 
potassium, but no significant effect on sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate.These 
findings underscore the importance of routine renal function assessments for those exposed to 
radiation in the radiology unit. 

Keywords: Urea, Creatinine, Electrolytes, Radiation. 

1. INTRODUCTION 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

Medical workers in the radiology unit are routinely exposed to ionizing radiation, 

which may have deleterious effects on various biochemical and physiological 

parameters. Chronic exposure to low-dose radiation has been associated with 

oxidative stress, DNA damage, and alterations in cellular metabolism (1,2). 

Among the biochemical parameters that may be affected are urea, creatinine, and 

electrolytes, which are critical for kidney function and overall homeostasis (3,4). In 

Nigeria, where radiation safety regulations may not always be strictly enforced, 

radiographers working in diagnostic imaging centers may face significant 

occupational exposure risks (5). 

Ionizing radiation generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage 

cellular components, including lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids (6). The kidneys, 

being highly vascularized organs, are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress, 

which may lead to alterations in renal function markers such as urea and creatinine 

(7). Elevated serum urea and creatinine levels often indicate impaired renal 

filtration capacity, which may be exacerbated by chronic radiation exposure (8). 

Furthermore, radiation-induced nephrotoxicity has been reported in individuals 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

exposed to both low and high doses of radiation, suggesting that even occupational 

exposure may have long-term health implications (9). 

Electrolytes, including sodium (Na⁺ ⁺ ⁻), potassium (K ), and chloride (Cl ), play 

essential roles in maintaining osmotic balance, nerve transmission, and muscle 

function (10). Disruptions in electrolyte homeostasis can lead to severe 

physiological consequences such as hypertension, arrhythmias, and neuromuscular 

dysfunction (11). Studies have shown that exposure to radiation may alter 

electrolyte balance by affecting the function of ion transporters and renal 

reabsorption processes (12). For instance, research on radiation-exposed workers in 

nuclear facilities has demonstrated significant variations in serum sodium and 

potassium levels, potentially due to radiation-induced damage to renal tubules and 

endocrine regulation mechanisms (13). 

Despite the growing body of evidence on radiation-induced biochemical changes, 

there is limited data on how occupational radiation exposure affects medical 

workers exposed to radiation in Nigeria. Imo State, located in southeastern Nigeria, 

has a high concentration of diagnostic imaging centers, increasing the likelihood of 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

cumulative radiation exposure among workers exposed to radiation (14). However, 

the extent to which this exposure influences renal function and electrolyte balance 

remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the biochemical status of urea, 

creatinine, sodium, potassium, and chloride in medical workers exposed to 

radiation in Imo State. The findings will contribute to understanding the 

occupational health risks associated with diagnostic radiation exposure and may 

inform policies to enhance radiation safety practices in Nigeria. 

2. MATERIALS AND METHODS 

2.1 Study Area 

The study wasconducted at the Federal Teaching Hospital,Imo Specialist Hospital. 

Owerri, and Imo State University Teaching, Hospital (IMSUTH) Orlu, Imo State. 

2.2 Study Design 

This research was a cross-sectional study carried out at three major hospitals in 

Imo State (Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, Imo specialist hospital, 

Umuguma, Owerri and Imo State Teaching Hospital, Orlu). A total of 40 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

individuals which comprised of 40 workers exposed to radiation and 40 non - 

radiation workers were recruited for the study. Informed consent and 

questionnaires were administered before sample collection, and five milliliters of 

venous blood was collected from each subject, and dispensed into plain container, 

for the estimation of the electrolytes. The procedure was carried out using standard 

laboratory procedures, and results of the tests were analyzed using SPSS version 

27 

2.3 Method of Recruitment 

Medical workers exposed to radiation between the ages of 30 - 60yrs who were 

working with the three hospitals and gave their informed consents were recruited 

for the study. Age-matched non-exposed subjects served as controls. Strict 

confidentiality was maintained. 

2.4 Study Population 

A total of forty (40) workers exposed to radiation and an equivalent number of age 

- matched non-exposed subjects consisted the study population. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

2.5 Ethical Approval 

Ethical approval was obtained from the ethics committee of Federal Teaching 

Hospital, Owerri, Imo state Teaching Hospital, Orlu and Imo state Specialist 

Hospital Umuguma. All study participants who gave their informed consent were 

enrolled in the study before sample collection. 

2.6Laboratory Analysis 

The determination of Urea was determined using Abbott Architect c16000, which 

uses the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIS). The resulting 

chemiluminescent reaction is measured as a relative light unit (RLU). Creatinine 

was also determined using Abbott Architect c1 6000, while the electrolytes were 

determined using the audicom (AC9803) electrolyte analyzer. 

2.7   Statistical Analysis  

The statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 27 (statistical packages 

for social sciences). All values were expressed as mean± standard deviation. The 

student-t-test and Pearson correlation were used to determine the differences in the 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

experimental variables. The tests with a probability P≤0.05 were considered 

statistically significant. 

3.RESULTS 

Table 1: Mean Values of Creatinine, Urea, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride and 
Bicarbonate in workers Exposed to Radiation (Test) and Non-exposed 
Subjects (Control). (Mean ±SD). 

There was a significant increase in the mean values of creatinine (1.23±0.51)mg/dl 

and urea (42.86±9.56)mg/dl in workers exposed to radiation when compared to 

controls (0.84±0.45)mg/dl and (28.82±5.23)mg/dl( t=3.54,p=0.001 andt=7.12, 

p=0.000) 

Potassium levels in those exposed(3.83±0.56)mmol/l  were significantly lowered 

when compared to controls (4.37±0.49)mmol/l(t= 4.50 ,p=0.000). There was no 

si.89±2.17)mmol/l and bicarbonate (26.07±5.15)mmol/l in workers exposed to 

radiation when compared to controls (136.62±7.77)mmol/l, (99.75±1.95)mmol/l 

and a significant difference in the mean values of sodium (138.49±7.15)mmol/l, 

chloride (996.02±5.22)mmol/l( t= 1.12 ,p=0.265,t=0.31 , p=0.758 andt=0.48, 

p=0.633). 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

 

Parameter Test Control t-value p-value 
Creatinine 

(mg/dl) 

1.23±0.51 0.84±0.45 3.54 0.001* 

Urea (mg/dl) 42.86±9.56 28.82±5.23 7.12 0.000* 

Sodium 

(mmol/L) 

138.49±7.15 136.62±7.77 1.12 0.265 

Potassium 

(mmol/L) 

3.83±0.56 4.37±0.49 4.50 0.000* 

Chloride 

(mmol/L) 

99.89±2.17 99.75±1.95 0.31 0.758 

Bicarbonate 

(mmol/L) 

26.07±5.15 26.02±5.22 0.48 0.633 

KEY: 

*: Significant p value 
 
 

 

Table 2: Comparison of the Mean Levels of Creatinine, Urea, Sodium, 

Potassium, Chloride and Bicarbonate in Workers exposed to Radiation based 

on Duration of Exposure (Mean±SD). 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

During 3-10 years of exposure, Creatinine(0.97±0.46)mg/dl, 

Urea(36.72±11.37)mg/dl and Chloride (99.58±1.55) mmd/l showed no significant 

difference when compared to 11-18years(1.15±0.43)mg/dl, (43.58±8.47)mg/dl, and 

(99.94±1.46) mmd/l and>18years exposure (1.59±0.61)mg/dl, (46.64±5.67)mg/dl 

and (100.39±4.36)mmd/l (f=3.68; p=0.055; f= 3.11, p=00.57; and f=0.28, 

p=0.756).Sodium(139.43±8.61) mmd/l during 11 year of exposure showed no 

significant increase when compared to 3-10 years(135.75± 4.12) and > 18 years of 

exposure (138.61±7.04)mm/dl(f=0.91, p=0.414) 

Bicarbonate(27.79±4.33) mmol/l during >18years exposure showed no significant 

increase when compared to 3-10years(26.29±5.50)mmd/l and 11-

18years(25.10±5.04)mmol/l respectively (f=0.77, p=0.471). 

 

 

 

 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

Parameter (3-10)yrs (11-18)yrs (>18)yrs f-value p-value 

      

      

      

      

 

     
 

     
 

     
 

     
 

     
 

     
Creatinine (mg/dl) 0.97±0.46 1.15±0.43 1.59±0.61 3.68 0.055 

Urea (mg/dl) 36.72±11.37 43.58±8.47 46.64±5.67 3.11 0.057 

Sodium (mmol/L) 135.75±4.12 139.43±8.61 138.61±7.04 0.91 0.414 

Potassium (mmol/L) 4.12±0.66 3.78±0.41 3.69±0.54 1.97 0.154 

Chloride (mmol/L) 99.58±1.55 99.94±1.46 100.39±4.36 0.28 0.756 

Bicarbonate (mmol/L) 26.29±5.50 25.10±5.04 27.79±4.33 0.77 0.471 

     

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

Table 3: Comparison of the Mean Levels of Creatinine, Urea, Sodium, 
Potassium, Chloride and Bicarbonate in Workers Exposed to Radiation based 

on Sex. 

There was a non-significant difference  in the mean values of creatinine 

(1.25±0.52)mg/dl, potassium (3.84±0.59)mmol/l and bicarbonate (26.44±5.26)mmol/l 

in male workers exposed to Radiation when compared to females(1.14±0.59)mg/dl, 

(3.66±0.40)mmol/l, (22.9±2.43) mmol/l respectively ( t=1.05, p=0.492; t=0.42, 

p=0.080 andt=0.51, p=0.521). 

The mean values of Urea(42.46±9.94)mg/dl, Sodium(137.89±6.70)mmo/l and 

Chloride(99.76±2.10)mmol/lin males were insignificantly lower when compared to 

females (45.66±6.38)mg/dl, (140.66±10.96)mmol/l and (101.66±2.97) mmo/l(t=0.44, 

p=0.126; t=1.45, p=0.542; t=1.43,p=0.810; t=2.22, p=0.432; t1.07,p=0.518, and 

t=0.48, p=0.151). 

Parameter Male Female t-value p-value 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

     

     

     

Creatinine (mg/dl) 1.25±0.52 1.14±0.59 1.05 0.492 

Urea (mg/dl) 42.46±9.94 45.66±6.36 2.22 0.432 

Sodium (mmol/L) 137.89±6.70 140.66±10.96 1.07 0.518 

Potassium (mmol/L) 3.84±0.59 3.66±0.40 0.42 0.080 

Chloride (mmol/L) 99.76±2.10 101.66±2.97 0.48 0.151 

Bicarbonate (mmol/L) 26.44±5.26 22.91±2.43 0.51 0.521 

 
 
Table 4: Mean Values of Creatinine, Urea, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride and 
Bicarbonate based on Age.  
 
The mean values of potassium (3.84±0.61)mmol/l, chloride (99.87±1.73)mmol/l 

and bicarbonate (23.66±3.44)mmol/l inworkers exposed to radiation of ages (35-

50)yrs were non-significantly raised when compared to those of ages>50 yrs 

(3.76±0.51)mmol/l, (99.48±3.37)mmol/l and (22.07±1.58)mmol/l ( t=0.65, 

p=0.674; t = 1.79, p = 0.632, and t=4.89 p=0.612), while that of Creatinine 

(1.17±0.48)mg/dl, Urea (40.60±10.46)mg/dl and Sodium (137.45±6.68)mmol/l, in 

the exposed of ages (35-50)yrs were not significantly lowered when compared 

tothose exposed ofages,>50yrs(1.35±0.59)mg/dl,(47.40±4.94)mg/dl and 

(140.05±8.13)mmol/l (t=0.43,  p=0.301; t=0.69 , p=0.321 and t=0.79, p=0.290). 

 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

Parameter (35-50)yrs >50 yrs t-value p-value 

     
     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

Creatinine (mg/dl) 1.17±0.48 1.35±0.59 0.43 0.301 

Urea (mg/dl) 40.60±10.46 47.40±4.94 0.69 0.321 

Sodium (mmol/L) 137.45±6.68 140.05±8.13 0.79 0.290 

Potassium (mmol/L) 3.84±0.61 3.76±0.51 0.65 0.674 

Chloride (mmol/L) 99.87±1.73 99.48±3.37 1.79 0.632 

Bicarbonate 
(mmol/L) 

23.66±3.44 22.07±1.58 4.89 0.612 

 

 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

4. DISCUSSION 

The findings of this study indicate that medical workers exposed to ionizing 

radiation in Imo State, Nigeria, had significantly higher urea levels compared to 

thenon-exposed. This suggests potential radiation-induced alterations in renal 

function, as urea is a key marker of kidney filtration efficiency. Previous studies 

have reported similar findings, where prolonged occupational exposure to ionizing 

radiation was associated with elevated urea levels, possibly due to subclinical 

nephrotoxicity and oxidative stress affecting renal tissues (15,16). Radiation 

exposure generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage renal cells 

and impair glomerular function, leading to reduced urea clearance and subsequent 

accumulation in the bloodstream (17). 

Conversely, potassium levels were significantly lower in those  exposed to 

radiation  than in the control group. This finding is in agreement with research by 

Prasad et al. (18), who observed hypokalemia in radiation-exposed workers, likely 

due to radiation-induced damage to renal tubular cells that regulate potassium 

reabsorption. Ionizing radiation has been reported to influence the activity of 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

Na⁺ ⁺/K -ATPase pumps, which plays a crucial role in maintaining intracellular 

and extracellular potassium balance (19). Moreover, studies on radiation-exposed 

populations have shown alterations in potassium levels due to potential effects on 

the endocrine system, particularly the adrenal glands, which regulate potassium 

homeostasis through aldosterone secretion (20). 

In contrast, sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate levels did not differ significantly 

between those exposed and the non-exposed. These findings are consistent with 

those of Kadhim et al. (21), who reported no significant variations in these 

electrolytes among occupationally exposed individuals. This may indicate that 

radiation exposure at the observed levels does not significantly impair sodium and 

chloride homeostasis, possibly due to compensatory mechanisms in the kidneys 

that maintain electrolyte balance despite radiation-induced stress. However, some 

studies have found contradictory results, with reports of sodium retention and 

chloride imbalances in radiation workers, suggesting that individual susceptibility 

and exposure dose may influence these biochemical outcomes (22). 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

When the biochemical parameters were analyzed based on the duration of radiation 

exposure, no significant differences were observed between those exposed with 3–

10 years, 11–18 years, and more than 18 years of experience. This contrasts with 

previous studies that have demonstrated cumulative radiation effects over time, 

leading to progressive biochemical alterations (23). The lack of significant 

differences in this study may be attributed to variations in individual radiation 

protection practices, differences in exposure levels across workplaces, and the 

potential for adaptive physiological responses that mitigate long-term effects (24). 

Similarly, no significant differences were found when comparing biochemical 

parameters based on age groups (35–50 years and >50 years). This aligns with 

findings from Kumar et al. (25), who reported that renal and electrolyte function 

remained relatively stable across different age groups of radiation workers, 

provided that exposure levels were within occupational safety limits. However, 

some studies suggest that older individuals may be more susceptible to radiation-

induced nephrotoxicity due to age-related decline in renal function and reduced 

antioxidant capacity (26). The absence of such findings in this study suggests that 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

occupational exposure levels may not be sufficient to cause age-dependent 

biochemical alterations or that radiographers adopt adequate protective measures 

that minimize age-related susceptibility. 

Furthermore, there were no significant sex-based differences in biochemical 

parameters among workers exposed to radiation. This is in agreement with studies 

by Chang et al. (27) and Nuraeni et al. (28), who found that sex did not 

significantly influence renal and electrolyte parameters in radiation-exposed 

workers. While some research has indicated that hormonal differences between 

males and females might influence susceptibility to radiation-induced oxidative 

stress (29), the lack of significant sex-related variations in this study suggests that 

both male and female workers exposed to radiation may experience similar 

exposure effects and physiological responses. 

Overall, the findings of this study suggest that while radiation exposure may 

impact renal function by elevating urea levels and reducing potassium levels, the 

effects on other biochemical parameters remain minimal. The absence of 

significant differences based on exposure duration, age, or sex suggests that either 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

the exposure levels are within tolerable limits or that individual adaptive 

mechanisms mitigate potential damage. However, further longitudinal studies with 

larger sample sizes and detailed radiation dose assessments are necessary to 

confirm these findings and establish long-term occupational health risks among 

medical workers exposed to radiation in Nigeria 

5. CONCLUSION 

This study found significantly elevated creatinine and urea levels and decreased 

potassium levels in medical workers exposed to radiation compared to controls, 

suggesting a possible impact of chronic low-dose radiation exposure on renal 

function and electrolyte balance. However, sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate 

levels remained unchanged. These findings underscore the importance of routine 

renal function assessments for workers exposed and further research into the long-

term effects of occupational radiation exposure. Implementing preventive measures 

and early detection strategies could help mitigate potential health risks associated 

with prolonged radiation exposure in medical imaging professionals. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

REFERENCES 

1. Hall EJ, Giaccia AJ. Radiobiology for the Radiologist. 7th ed. Philadelphia: 

Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2012. 

2. Mettler FA, Upton AC. Medical Effects of Ionizing Radiation. 3rd ed. Saunders 

Elsevier; 2008. 

3. Raza SK, Naqvi SA, Rehman AU. Effects of ionizing radiation on kidney 

function parameters in radiology workers. Int J Radiat Res. 2020;18(4):789-95. 

4. Al-Hussaini M, Al-Nimer M, Al-Khazraji B. Assessment of renal function and 

electrolytes in radiation workers. J Occup Med Toxicol. 2016;11(1):23 

5. Akpochafor MO, Uduma-Olugu NI, Adeneye SO. Radiation protection practices 

among radiographers in Nigeria: A survey. Radiography. 2019;25(3):e86-91. 

6. Yamada T, Makita Y, Nagai Y. Oxidative stress and renal dysfunction in 

radiation-exposed workers. Free Radic Biol Med. 2018;115:83-9. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
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https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

7. Kumar S, Venkatesh P, Kulkarni S. Renal biomarkers in radiation workers: A 

study on oxidative damage. J Nephrol. 2017;30(4):563-70. 

8. Prasad V, Mohammad A, Kumar R. Radiation nephropathy and biochemical 

alterations: A clinical evaluation. Int J Nephrol. 2015;2015:567920. 

9. Kadhim M, Salih T, Al-Tameemi R. Chronic exposure to ionizing radiation and 

renal function impairment: A meta-analysis. J Environ Radioact. 2020;221:106336. 

10. Guyton AC, Hall JE. Textbook of Medical Physiology. 13th ed. Philadelphia: 

Elsevier; 2016. 

11. Abdulhakeem M, Oduwole O, Adeniyi S. Radiation exposure and electrolyte 

imbalances among healthcare workers. Med Phys. 2019;46(5):1256-62. 

12. Chang H, Lee M, Kim S. Ionizing radiation and its effect on serum electrolytes 

in occupationally exposed workers. Radiat Res. 2017;188(3):356-64. 

13. Nuraeni W, Setiawan D, Rahman F. Electrolyte disturbances in radiation 

workers: A cross-sectional study. J Occup Health. 2021;63(1):e12238. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

14. Eze CU, Okoye GC, Agwu KK. Radiation protection awareness among 

radiographers in southeastern Nigeria. Niger J Clin Pract. 2018;21(2):208-14. 

15. Yamada T, Makita Y, Nagai Y. Oxidative stress and renal dysfunction in 

radiation-exposed workers. Free Radic Biol Med. 2018;115:83-9. 

16. Raza SK, Naqvi SA, Rehman AU. Effects of ionizing radiation on kidney 

function parameters in radiology workers. Int J Radiat Res. 2020;18(4):789-95. 

17. Hall EJ, Giaccia AJ. Radiobiology for the Radiologist. 7th ed. Philadelphia: 

Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2012. 

18. Prasad V, Mohammad A, Kumar R. Radiation nephropathy and biochemical 

alterations: A clinical evaluation. Int J Nephrol. 2015;2015:567920. 

19. Al-Hussaini M, Al-Nimer M, Al-Khazraji B. Assessment of renal function and 

electrolytes in radiation workers. J Occup Med Toxicol. 2016;11(1):23. 

20. Abdulhakeem M, Oduwole O, Adeniyi S. Radiation exposure and electrolyte 

imbalances among healthcare workers. Med Phys. 2019;46(5):1256-62. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

21. Kadhim M, Salih T, Al-Tameemi R. Chronic exposure to ionizing radiation 

and renal function impairment: A meta-analysis. J Environ Radioact. 

2020;221:106336. 

22. Nuraeni W, Setiawan D, Rahman F. Electrolyte disturbances in radiation 

workers: A cross-sectional study. J Occup Health. 2021;63(1):e12238. 

23. Eze CU, Okoye GC, Agwu KK. Radiation protection awareness among 

radiographers in southeastern Nigeria. Niger J Clin Pract. 2018;21(2):208-14. 

24. Mettler FA, Upton AC. Medical Effects of Ionizing Radiation. 3rd ed. 

Saunders Elsevier; 2008. 

25. Kumar S, Venkatesh P, Kulkarni S. Renal biomarkers in radiation workers: A 

study on oxidative damage. J Nephrol. 2017;30(4):563-70. 

26. Chang H, Lee M, Kim S. Ionizing radiation and its effect on serum electrolytes 

in occupationally exposed workers. Radiat Res. 2017;188(3):356-64. 

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IJO - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SCIENCES AND NURSING  

 ( ISSN: 2814-2098 )                                                                                                                Nnadozie Agatha C 
1
*  

https://ijojournals.com/                                                                                             Volume 08 || Issue 05 || May, 2025 || 

“STATUS OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AMONGWORKERS IN THE RADIOLOGY UNIT IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA." 

 

 

27. Guyton AC, Hall JE. Textbook of Medical Physiology. 13th ed. Philadelphia: 

Elsevier; 2016. 

28. Nuraeni W, Setiawan D, Rahman F. Gender differences in radiation-induced 

biochemical alterations: A comparative study. J Radiat Biol. 2022;98(1):45-53. 

29. Umegbolu EI, Onwukwe OS, Agbaedeng TA. Gender-based susceptibility to 

radiation effects: A review of hormonal influences. J Biomed Sci. 2020;27(1):14. 

 

 

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