23 - Genetic Risk Estimation: Experience with Ionizing Radiation and its Relevance for Mutagenic Chemicals

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the sources and magnitude of radiation exposures sustained by the human populations; the assumptions, methods, and data actually used in estimating the amount of transmissible genetic damage likely to result from radiation exposures; their effects in term of increased load of genetic and partially genetic disorders; and their impact on health and well-being in man. It discusses the problems that one faces in attempting to make such estimates for mutagenic chemicals and how these are likely to be handled in the years to come. Ionizing radiation is a proven mutagen: It is known to produce mutations and chromosomal aberrations, the principal genetic changes that underlie cancer and genetic disease in man. The patterns and levels of radiation exposure experienced by human populations are reasonably well known, and there are established methods to assess absorbed doses in the target organ or the tissues of interest. The physical properties of radiation provide a firm basis for comparing the biological effects of different kinds of radiation, for predicting the effects expected of one kind of radiation from another, and for reliably combining the effects of different types of radiation.