Ultraviolet radiation is a common type of ionizing radiation. Ultraviolet light includes shorter wavelengths of UV-C, moderate wavelengths of UV-B, and longer wavelengths of UV-A. Ultraviolet light can cause problems such as sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. Long-term exposure to UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer.
X-rays and gamma rays are also common forms of ionizing radiation. These high-energy radiations can penetrate body tissues and cause damage to internal body organs. Commonly used radiological tests in medicine such as CT scans and radiation therapy involve X-rays and γ-rays, which may increase the risk of diseases such as cancer if they are used inappropriately or with frequent exposure to these sources of radiation.
Radioactive substances are also an important ionizing radiation hazard. Radioactive substances include naturally occurring radioactive elements such as uranium and thorium, as well as artificial radioisotopes such as cesium-137 and strontium-90. Prolonged exposure to or ingestion of these radioactive substances can lead to radioactive contamination, which is hazardous to human health. For example, radiation leaks from nuclear power plant accidents can cause radiological disasters and may lead to consequences such as cancer and genetic mutations.
Radiation sources also include ionizing radiation equipment and radiation sources in industrial production processes. For example, X-ray machines in medical equipment, nuclear reactors in the nuclear energy industry and radioisotopes used in industrial production are all sources of ionizing radiation. These devices and processes, if used irrationally or managed poorly, may cause radiation damage to workers and the surrounding environment.
Ionizing radiation hazards mainly include ultraviolet radiation, X-rays and γ-rays, radioactive substances, and sources of radiation in ionizing radiation equipment and industrial production processes. In order to reduce the harm of ionizing radiation on human health, we should pay attention to reasonable protection, reduce exposure time, and strictly control the use and management of radiation sources.