22. Biological effects of ionizing radiation.

nature of effects

• somatic effects - affects the exposed individual

• genetic effects - affect the offspring

Somatic Effects

(affect the exposed individual)

• Immediate:

  • Radiation sickness (Acute Radiation Syndrome – ARS)

• Delayed:

  • Cancer (e.g., leukaemia, solid tumors)

  • Cataracts (lens opacification)

  • GI ulcers

  • Skin injury (burns, necrosis, erythema)

  • Foetal abnormalities if exposure occurs during pregnancy

  • Reduced life expectancy

Genetic Effects

Genetic Effects (affect offspring)

• Damage to DNA in reproductive cells, passed to next generations

• Leads to mutations:

  • Chromosome mutations (e.g., breaks, translocations)

  • Point mutations (changes in a single base of DNA)

Target Organs/Systems

• Rapidly dividing tissues: bone marrow, GI tract, gonads

• Sensitive organs: eyes (cataracts), thyroid, lungs, skin

Long-Term Effects

• Carcinogenesis

• Genetic defects

• Lifespan shortening

• Chronic radiation syndromes in occupational exposures