Radiation
This is an extremely important topic for anyone involved in healthcare as well as the normal population. Ionising radiation is radiation that carries enough energy to detach electrons from atoms. UV light, Xrays as well as Gamma rays are ionising, whereas visible light, radio waves, microwaves and infrared carry non ionising radiation. Ionising radiation dose is measured in sievert. The effective dose, which is also measured in sievert, refers to stochastic health risk to the body ( probability of cancer induction and genetic effects). It takes into account the type of radiation and the Nature of the tissue being radiated. It takes into account how sensitive different tissues are to radiation. Normally speaking, we are exposed to natural sources of radiation daily, probably around 3mSv per year, which vary depending on where you live and the elevation. This natural radiation also includes cosmic radiation from outer space. Our exposure to cosmic waves is also slightly higher when we travel in the airplane. Our largest exposure of these natural or background radiation comes from radon gas in our homes (approximately 2 mSv / year). How does it happen? Exposure to ionising radiation leads to direct or indirect effects on the cell ( through free radicals), leading to molecular changes in the cells which eventually leads to either a deterministic radiation damage (such as skin redness, skin necrosis, cataracts ..) or a stochastic risk of developing cancer in later stages. A simple chest Xray carries similar radiation comparable to ten days of natural exposure. Try to always follow the principles of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). Make every effort to reduce the radiation risk. #insta dr.maherabounasr
