Late effects are side effects of treatment that occur months or years after the treatment has ended.
Older orthovoltage x-ray generators prior to the mid 1970's were less precise in their delivery of radiation, raising the chances of problems. Any effects vary according to the field of radiation exposure. Radiation to the head and neck can destroy salivary function while radiation in the pelvic area can cause reproductive problems, sterility, and early menopause. Radiation can lead to increased risk for developing other types of cancer, especially near radiation ports. Young women are more at risk for breast cancer, for example, if radiation was given to the chest.