X-rays used in conventional radiography and CT, as well as gamma-rays and other radionuclide emissions, are harmful.
X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation, meaning they can detach electrons from atoms and molecules (ionization), disrupting molecular bonds and damaging organic material in the process. The effects can be deterministic effect or Stochastic effect
Types of radiation:
- Alpha.
- Beta.
- Gamma and ( X-rays)
Source of radiation:
- Imaging
- Cosmic radiation
- Radioactive material in soil
Overview of radiation
| - Type | - Occurrence | - Malignancy |
|---|---|---|
| - Non-ionionizing radiation | - UV-B | - Skin cancers |
| - Ionizing radiation | - X-rays - Gamma rays | - Leukemias (especially AML and CML) - Papillary thyroid cancer - Osteosarcoma - Liver angiosarcoma |
How to minimize the risk
If all radiation reducing methods were followed, including the elimination of unnecessary examinations, it might be possible to reduce the number of cancer fatalities by over 100 cases per year:
- Time
- Distance
- Shielding
Safety and risks of X-rays
Children have been seen more susceptible to radiation effects as they have more stem cell which are more sensitive to radiation.
- Fetal Risk of radiation: Depends on level gestation
| Days after conception | Effect of major exposure (Greater than 10 mGy) |
|---|---|
| - 1- 10 | - Fetal demise |
| - 20 - 40 | - Congenital abnormalities |
| - 50 – 70 | - Microcephaly |
| - 70 - 150 | - Growth and mental retardation |