nbsp   Can radiation have beneficial health effects?
[A. CANDU Technology] [B. The Industry] [C. Cost/Benefit] [D. Safety/Liability] [E. Waste] [F. Security/Non-Proliferation] [G. Uranium] [H. Research Reactors] [I. Other R&D] [J. Further Info] [contributed by Dr. Richard Osborne, Sept 2008] The first answer to this question is obviously “Yes” since radiation therapy is responsible for extending the life of many people and the application of radiation and radiopharmaceuticals has led to greatly improved medical diagnoses and subsequent treatment of injuries and diseases (see related FAQ). More indirectly, applications of radiation and radionuclides in industry have led to economic benefits that have improved living standards and, consequently, better health. But the question as posed often is referring to small doses of radiation and the direct effects on the individuals exposed. Here, the story is much more complicated. All living organisms have evolved and exist in the presence of ionizing radiation. Such a situation can lead to the sp
