Some radiation is inevitable, and humans are constantly exposed to natural radiation from soil, building materials like marble and granite, cell phone towers, and excess radiation in flights at or above 20,000 feet.
Medical radiation, from X-rays, also contributes. These scans, which are so essential to diagnosis and cure, are also inherently dangerous, particularly if given more than a dozen times a year. The greatest danger is to the thyroid gland, and this is why governments routinely distribute potassium iodide tablets in the event of accidental radiation exposures, as in a nuclear plant failure.
Radiation protection equipment for both radiologist and patient is a standard in facilities that offer X-rays. This equipment can run the gamut from lead-lined vests, or aprons, to lap shields for use by women of childbearing age and thyroid neck shields.
Some radiation is inevitable, and humans are constantly exposed to natural radiation from soil, building materials like marble and granite, cell phone towers, and excess radiation in flights at or above 20,000 feet.
ReplyDeleteMedical radiation, from X-rays, also contributes. These scans, which are so essential to diagnosis and cure, are also inherently dangerous, particularly if given more than a dozen times a year. The greatest danger is to the thyroid gland, and this is why governments routinely distribute potassium iodide tablets in the event of accidental radiation exposures, as in a nuclear plant failure.
Radiation protection equipment for both radiologist and patient is a standard in facilities that offer X-rays. This equipment can run the gamut from lead-lined vests, or aprons, to lap shields for use by women of childbearing age and thyroid neck shields.
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