Risk Factors Patient Resource Area
Radiation and the Risk of Cancer

Radiation has been a natural part of Earth's environment since its formation. Our mining and use of these naturally radioactive materials in medicine, power generation, consumer products, and industrial equipment inevitably results in emissions and wastes. No one knows exactly what causes cancer. Exposure to certain types of radiation may increase the likelihood that cancer will develop. Radiation exposure is called a risk factor for cancer. However, just because a person has been exposed to radiation does not mean that person will get cancer. In fact, most people who get cancer do not have any exposure to radiation at all.

Cellular Telephone Use and Cancer
Fact sheet from NCI regarding cellular phone use and cancer risk outlining the possible mechanisms for risk from radiation from cell phones and summarizing research studies on the topic, ending with recommendations for those concerned about reducing possible risk.

Nuclear Facilities and Cancer Mortality Risk
This fact sheet provides a comprehensive discussion of nuclear facilities and cancer risk, including a list of frequently asked questions, and research data.

Radiation Protection
This U.S. Environmental Protection Agency site provides a comprehensive resource regarding radiation protection with links to numerous resources for further information on legal, environmental and research issues.

Radon and Cancer Questions and Answers
An informative fact sheet about radon and cancer risk, including definitions, health effects, summary of research evidence, testing for radon in the home including cost and sources for further information.

Your Cancer Risk
An established site developed by Harvard provides an easy to use, interactive approach to assessing risk for the leading cancer sites, which estimates risk based on reported risk factors, targets various exposures, and provides customized hints to reducing risk.