The Effects of Radiation Exposure
Every day of our lives we are exposed to radiation. The majority of this radiation comes from natural sources---approximately 82 percent according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission---and comes in small doses that do not warrant much concern. In addition, exposure to some man-made sources of radiation, such as medical X-rays, is also not cause for concern. The human body is capable of handling these tiny doses. Sudden exposure to large quantities of radiation or sustained exposure to moderate amounts of radiation, however, can cause serious health concerns. Radiation affects people differently based on a variety of factors.
