What risk is associated with ionizing radiation?

Ionizing radiation is known to pose a health risk primarily because of its ability to disrupt atomic structures within living tissues. This radiation carries enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, which can lead to cellular damage, including DNA mutations. Such damage can result in an increased risk of cancer and other health issues over time, especially with prolonged or high exposure.

Although ionizing radiation is utilized in medical imaging and has specific beneficial applications, such as diagnosing diseases, the primary concern remains its potential harmful effects on human health. Therefore, recognizing the inherent risks associated with exposure to ionizing radiation is crucial for both public safety and professional practice in fields related to radiation, such as medical imaging and environmental health.