Radiation is the emission (sending out) of energy from any source. The light that comes from the sun is a source of radiation, as is the heat that is constantly coming off our bodies. When talking about radiation, however, most people think of specific kinds of radiation such as that produced by radioactive materials or nuclear reactions. Most forms of radiation have not been linked to cancer. Only high frequency radiation (ionizing radiation and ultraviolet radiation) has been proven to cause genetic damage, which can lead to cancer. According to the Phoenix surgical oncologist, The hazards of exposure to some kinds of radiation were recognized shortly after the discovery of the x-ray in 1895. Skin reactions were observed in many people working with early x-ray generators, and by 1902 the first radiation-caused cancer was reported in a skin sore. Within a few years, a large number of such skin cancers had been observed. The first report of leukemia (a cancer of the bone marrow) in radiation workers appeared in 1911. Marie Curie, the discoverer of radium, and her daughter are believed to have died of radiation-caused leukemia. Since that time, many studies have confirmed the cancer-causing effects of some types of radiation.

Radiation is energy that travels in the form of waves or high-speed particles. It occurs naturally in sunlight and sound waves. Man-made radiation is used in X-rays, nuclear weapons, nuclear power plants and cancer treatment.

If you are exposed to small amounts of radiation over a long time, it raises your risk of cancer. It can also cause mutations in your genes, which you could pass on to any children you have after the exposure. A lot of radiation over a short period, such as from a radiation emergency, can cause burns or radiation sickness. Symptoms of radiation sickness include nausea, weakness, hair loss, skin burns and reduced organ function. If the exposure is large enough, it can cause premature aging or even death. You may be able to take medicine to reduce the radioactive material in your body.