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Pediatric Exposures to Ionizing Radiation: Carcinogenic Considerations
Kristy R Kutanzi1, Annie Lumen2, Igor Koturbash3
1Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA. kristy.kutanzi@gmail.com.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 2, 2016
Summary
Children face higher cancer risks from ionizing radiation due to developing bodies. This review examines pediatric radiation exposure risks from accidents, medical imaging, and treatments, focusing on leukemia and thyroid cancers.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric oncology
- Radiation oncology
- Environmental health
Background:
- Children's developing bodies are more susceptible to ionizing radiation's carcinogenic effects.
- Longer life expectancy post-exposure increases cumulative cancer risk.
- Specific attention is needed for pediatric radiation exposures from accidents, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the carcinogenic potential of pediatric exposure to ionizing radiation.
- To emphasize leukemia and thyroid cancers following accidental exposures.
- To discuss radiation therapy and computed tomography (CT) links to childhood cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles and studies.
- Analysis of data on cancer incidence following various radiation exposure types.
- Synthesis of evidence on ionizing radiation and pediatric carcinogenesis.
Main Results:
- Ionizing radiation significantly increases cancer risk in children.
- Accidental exposures are linked to increased rates of leukemia and thyroid cancer.
- Radiotherapy and CT scans contribute to secondary cancer development in children.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric exposure to ionizing radiation poses a substantial cancer risk.
- Minimizing radiation exposure in children is crucial for cancer prevention.
- Further research and protective measures are needed to mitigate long-term health effects.
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