Can Radiation Cause Cancer?
December 26, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, exposure to certain types of radiation can increase the risk of developing cancer. Ionizing radiation, which includes sources like X-rays, gamma rays, and some forms of nuclear radiation, has the potential to damage DNA within cells. When cells sustain damage to their DNA, it can lead to mutations that may result in uncontrolled cell growth, a hallmark of cancer.
The risk of developing cancer due to radiation exposure depends on several factors:
- Dose of radiation: Higher doses of radiation increase the likelihood of cellular damage and the risk of developing cancer. However, even low doses of radiation over a long period can also pose a risk, although it may be smaller.
- Type of radiation: Different types of radiation have varying degrees of energy and penetration capabilities. For instance, higher-energy radiation like gamma rays and certain particles have greater potential to cause cellular damage compared to lower-energy forms.
- Duration of exposure: Prolonged or repeated exposure to radiation increases the cumulative risk of cellular damage and cancer development.
- Age at exposure: The age at which someone is exposed to radiation can influence their susceptibility to developing radiation-related cancers. Children and adolescents are generally more sensitive to radiation and have a higher risk of developing radiation-induced cancers later in life.
Radiation exposure from medical imaging procedures (such as X-rays and CT scans) is typically low and carries a very small risk of causing cancer. However, the benefits of these procedures often outweigh the potential risks, especially when used for necessary diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
Occupational exposure to radiation (e.g., nuclear industry workers) and exposure due to environmental factors (e.g., nuclear accidents, radon exposure) are situations where individuals might be at higher risk of radiation-induced cancers.
It’s important to note that not all radiation exposure leads to cancer, and the risk varies widely depending on the factors mentioned above. Nonetheless, minimizing unnecessary exposure to radiation, following safety protocols in occupational settings, and ensuring proper protection measures can help reduce the potential risk of radiation-induced cancers. Regular monitoring and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial in environments where exposure to radiation is a concern.