Radiation Exposure

Radiation exposure occurs any time that energy in the form of electromagnetic rays or particles interacts with biological tissue. Ionizing radiation is particularly energetic; examples include: x rays, gamma radiation, and subatomic particles. Biological damages caused by exposure to ionizing range from mild tissue burns to cancer, genetic damage, and ultimately, death. However, there are potential benefits of controlled exposures to certain kinds of radiation, which can be used for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of certain diseases. Exposure to many types of radiation is routinely monitored using sensitive devices, such as film badges and dosimeters.