RADIATION
THE FACTS

• Radiation can cause cancer. It can also be used successfully to treat some forms of cancer. Everyone is exposed to radiation. Nearly all the radiation that the average person gets comes naturally from the earth and the sky or from medical exposure (particularly X-rays). We all receive tiny amounts of radiation from manufactured sources. For most of us this is nothing to worry about because the total amount we receive is extremely small.


• Some of us also get radiation from exposure to hazards at work, from the nuclear industry and even to some extent from coal-fired power stations. The use of X-rays to detect or treat diseases is much safer than it used to be, because the doses are much lower than in the past and the risk from them is now negligible. In any case, X-ray examinations and treatment should only be given when the benefits outweigh the risks.

HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISKS
If you work with radiation, make sure that the regulations are fully observed. If in any doubt, see your safety representative or employer or contact a Health and Safety Inspector.

If you think you may be having too frequent X-rays or treatment, talk it over with the doctor or dentist who is recommending it.

As far as dental X-rays are concerned, you should avoid having them too often. Some experts suggest that adults with normal healthy teeth and gums should not need an X-ray more often than every two years. If you having a dental X-ray it is best to wear a protective apron.