Ionizing Radation Ionizing Radiation John D. Boice, Sc.
Ionizing radiation is a known cause of cancer and other adverse effects.
Ionizing radiation is able to remove electrons from atoms and to change the molecular structures of cells. It is these cellular changes that may cause cancer to develop. The genetic DNA in the cell nucleus is thought to be the critical target for radiation-induced damage. Some radiation comes from natural sources, such as that from cosmic rays and radioactive substances in the earth's crust. But patients who receive daily radiation therapy treatments of 2 Gy directed to a small area of the body can be exposed to tens of gray over a period of weeks.