4. Low Level Late Radiation Effects

T/F: It is easily determinable to ascertain if an effect was produced by low level radiation OR if it occurred spontaneously

False: it is difficult to determine that

Radiation protection principles are based on a (linear/ non-linear) (threshold, non-threshold) model of a dose/response relationship curve.

linear, non-threshold

Define: 

linear

non-threshold 

linear: as the dose increases, effects also increase

non-threshold: no minimum dose below which radiation effects are absent 

Give examples of a non-threshold dose

genetic defects, carcinogenesis

Give an example of a threshold dose

mucositis

label each curve

Top Graph: linear

Bottom Graph: non-linear

Non-threshold:  A, B, E, F

Threshold: C, D, G

term. Somatic effects

def. effects that occur during that person’s lifetime

term. Genetic effects

def. effects that occur in future generations

term. non-stochastic effects (give examples)

def. effects that have a threshold dose. 

e.g. epilation, erythema, mucositis, RTM

term. Stochastic effects

def. effects that have no threshold dose, either it happens or it doesn’t happen at all

e.g. Carcinogenesis, genetic mutation, birth defects 

FYI: think of stochastic as inevitable/ immutable  

(stochastic/ non-stochastic) effects indicate that there is some measure of risk with any exposure 

stochastic