Excessive exposure to radiation can cause changes in the structure of the cells in the body. This damages the DNA in the cells and leads to cancer through abnormal growth. The main causes are:
Ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight: The main cause of skin cancer is the intense UV rays in sunlight. Prolonged direct exposure to the sun damages the DNA in the skin cells.
Medical imaging: Tests such as X-rays and CT scans contain ionizing radiation. Although these are necessary for diagnosis, unnecessary repetition of such tests may increase the risk of cancer.
Naturally occurring radioactive gases: Inhaling gases such as ‘Radon’ found in soil and rocks can cause lung cancer. Accumulation of such gases indoors is harmful to health.
Radiation at work: People working in nuclear power plants, labs, and X-ray units are at risk of radiation exposure if proper safety standards are not followed. This poses a risk of cancer in
the long term.
Radiation in the atmosphere: Radioactive isotopes mixed in the atmosphere due to past nuclear tests and nuclear accidents can cause cancer if they enter the body through food or water.