He added that although X-rays can cause cancer, the chances of cancer developing are slim. Lapenfeld pointed to the value of mammograms, and said this form of medical radiation has saved many lives because of early disease detection. In addition, Lapenfeld said radiation is often used as a way to combat the malignant mass itself. Nevertheless, Gofman maintains that X-rays are a contributing factor in heart disease and several types of cancer. He said medical radiation causes gene mutations that accumulate each time a patient is exposed.
Radiation causes cancer by mutating genetic data, causing tumor cells.
Over time, these cells build up to form a cancerous mass. Then 10 years down the line, the radiation-induced mutations build up and cause cancer. Student Advantage, Inc. Inc. All Rights Reserved.