Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in diagnostic radiology in Côte d'Ivoire: an analysis based on spatial, collective, and individual dosimetric indicators (2018-2024).

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in diagnostic radiology in Côte d'Ivoire over the period 2018-2024. Based on spatial, collective, and individual dosimetric indicators, this analysis aims to quantify exposure levels and evaluate the effectiveness of radiological protection measures implemented nationally. A total of 78 facilities were monitored, over 90% of which were located in urban areas, particularly in Abidjan, the economic capital, which alone accounted for nearly 70% of the distributed thermoluminescent dosemeters (TLDs). This uneven distribution highlights disparities in access to dosimetric surveillance across the country. The annual collective dose (S) showed a significant increase from 94.54 man·mSv in 2018 to 1075.19 man·mSv in 2024 an increase of 1037.3%. The number of monitored workers rose from 187 to 595 over the same period, indicating expanded surveillance coverage. The average annual individual effective dose increased from 0.47 mSv in 2018 to 1.54 mSv in 2021 (a relative increase of 227.6%), before declining to 0.93 mSv in 2024 (a 39.6% decrease), reflecting the impact of corrective measures recommended by the national regulatory authority. Between 2018 and 2021, the proportion of workers exposed to doses exceeding 1 mSv/y rose sharply from 7.5% to over 90%, and continued to increase slightly, reaching 93.29% in 2024. These findings underscore the critical importance of maintaining regular monitoring and continuously improving radiological protection strategies. The study provides essential data to inform national policy and strengthen radiation safety in the medical sector.