Carcinogens: Radiation

Technically speaking, radiation is the emission and/or transmission of energy; it includes electromagnetic radiation (radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet light, X-rays, and g rays) and particle radiation (α, β, and neutron radiation).

Radiation comes from many different sources.  In our everyday lives, sunshine probably provides the most radiation to us.  Although appropriate exposure to the sunshine provides a lot of beneficial effects, too much exposure of sunshine could increase the risk of cancer.  For example, on a high mountain or in a flight, one could be subject to more UV light; overexposure to UV light could increase the risk of skin cancer.

Another source of radiation is radon, which is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas emitted from radioactive materials in soil and underground water.  It is somewhat surprising that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.

Other type of radiation exposure, including x-ray medical examination and radiotherapy, might also increase the risk of cancer.

© Jiajiu Shaw, 2015 

Disclaimer: This blog is written solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other medical professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All contents posted are extracted from the book I am writing, "IS CANCER IN US", to be published in about two months.