Radiation is everywhere – but before you panic, it’s essential to know that not all radiation is harmful to our health. Although too much radiation exposure can increase the risk of cancer and other health issues, understanding the primary sources of everyday radiation is the key to making informed choices about limiting your exposure.
Here, we’ll explore some common radiation sources and provide practical advice for minimizing exposure without sacrificing day-to-day activities. Additionally, we’ll discuss the topic of “downwinders,” individuals who have been exposed to increased levels of radiation from living or working in regions of nuclear test sites.
Radiation – An Overview
Radiation, simply put, is energy that travels from one location to another, manifesting either as waves or particles. It’s a typical part of our day-to-day lives, with the sun, Wi-Fi equipment, and microwave ovens all emitting some degree of radiation. The majority of this radiation is harmless to our wellbeing, but some types can pose risks.
The threat linked to radiation is generally lower at minimal doses, but it can increase with higher doses. Depending on the type of radiation, certain precautionary measures should be taken to safeguard ourselves and the environment from its effects, while still allowing us to benefit from its many uses.
Types of Radiation
As a rule, radiation can be classified into two categories:
- Ionizing Radiation – a type of radiation with enough energy to strip electrons from atoms, leading to the creation of ions (electrically charged atoms or molecules). This radiation is powerful enough to damage cells and DNA, which can potentially lead to health problems including cancer.
- Non-ionizing Radiation – a type of radiation with less energy, incapable of ionizing atoms or molecules. Although non-ionizing radiation is generally less harmful, long-term exposure to high levels can still pose risks, such as burns or damage to the eyes. Radio waves and visible light are sources of non-ionizing radiation.
Understanding these two types of radiation can help us make informed decisions about our daily activities and minimize potential risks associated with radiation exposure.
Natural Sources of Radiation
Even the Earth’s atmosphere contains trace amounts of ionizing radiation, thanks to cosmic rays showering our planet from outer space. On average, individuals receive about 0.1 millisieverts (mSv) of cosmic radiation exposure per year. To put it into perspective, a single dental X-ray delivers around 0.005 mSv of radiation.
Another source of natural ionizing radiation comes from radon, a gas produced as uranium decays in soil and groundwater. Inhaling radon raises the risk of lung cancer, so it’s crucial to check your home for radon gas build-up and take appropriate steps to mitigate the problem if necessary.
Man-Made Radiation Sources
Radiation is used within a variety of industries, such as in health, science, and manufacturing and it has provided many benefits. Some of the most common man-made sources of radiation exposure include:
- Medical Procedures: X-rays, CT scans, and radiation therapy treatments can deliver varying amounts of ionizing radiation. For X-ray and CT imaging tests, the lowest dose of radiation possible is used to obtain the needed medical information, helping to minimize the risk to health. In most cases, the benefits from these tests far outweigh the small potential risks, but it is important to discuss these with your medical provider first and, when possible, opt for alternative diagnostic tests with less radiation exposure. Modern methods of radiation therapy (a treatment used to kill cancer cells) precisely target the cancer, helping to protect healthy tissues from high doses of radiation.
- Household Electronics: Electronic devices and appliances such as microwaves and cell phones emit low levels of (non-ionizing) radiation. Although the risk is minimal, it’s still essential to establish healthy habits – such as not sleeping with your phone by your head or standing far from the microwave while it’s in use.
- Power Plants: During standard operation, nuclear power plants and coal-fired plants release very low amounts of radioactive substances into the atmosphere, which are considered a safe level. They have safety and security procedures in place and are closely monitored by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to help protect people and the environment and minimize radiation exposure. For example, they use remote handling equipment and physical shielding, limit the amount of time workers spend in areas with significant radiation levels, and have reactor buildings which are designed to contain radiation if there was an accident. Although the risks to people living near the plants are low, it pays to be aware of the emergency response plans in place, especially if you live within 10 miles of a nuclear power plant, and what the emergency instructions are if an accident occurs, which could result in dangerous levels of radiation over an area.
Radiation Exposure from Nuclear Testing
During the 1950s and 1960s, regions of the U.S., notably Nevada, became the epicenter of nuclear trials. These tests, including both subterranean and atmospheric experiments, had devastating consequences on both the environment and people living or working near nuclear test sites.
One particular group of people affected, known as the “downwinders” were the innocent victims of the radioactive fallout (materials released by the nuclear tests) caused by these explosions. Radioactive fallout was carried hundreds of miles away from the test site, exposing people living downwind of the tests to varying levels of radiation and a wide range of health complications, including various forms of cancer.
Downwinders Compensation
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was established in the U.S. in the 1990s to provide financial assistance to those affected by radiation exposure, including downwinders, uranium miners, and atomic veterans. Through the RECA, Downwinders can receive compensation of up to $50,000 if they developed a specific disease associated with radiation exposure and are able to meet certain residency requirements. More information about eligibility and the application process can be found by contacting the National Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders organization.
Understanding the sources of everyday radiation can empower you to make informed decisions about mitigating your risk of overexposure. By being mindful of your surroundings, educating yourself on the various sources of radiation exposure, and advocating safer practices, we can all work together to minimize risks to our health and the environment.
Support for Individuals Affected by Radiation Exposure
If you or a loved one is a downwinder and have been affected by radiation exposure, consider seeking advice about downwinder compensation from the compassionate team at the Cancer Benefits Center for Downwinders. Our dedicated staff can help you collect fair compensation and guide you throughout the claims process.
To find out more about the Downwinders compensation program or to get assistance making a claim, call us anytime at 1 (855) 631-7197. Our friendly team is available 24 hours a day, every day.
Downwinders® Claims