To calculate effective dose, varying radiosensitivity to different tissue types is defined by which factor?

The correct choice, the tissue weighting factor, is essential for calculating effective dose because it acknowledges the differing sensitivities of various tissue types to radiation exposure. Each organ or tissue in the body responds uniquely to radiation; some are more susceptible to damage and radiation-induced effects than others. The tissue weighting factor quantifies this variability by assigning a specific value to each tissue type, reflecting its relative risk of radiation-induced harm.

The effective dose is calculated by multiplying the absorbed dose to each tissue by its corresponding weighting factor, and then summing these values for all tissues. This approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the overall risk from exposure to radiation, as it combines both the amount of radiation received (the absorbed dose) and the biological effect of that radiation on different tissues.

In contrast, the radiation exposure index does not relate to tissue sensitivity; rather, it indicates the level of exposure. The absorbed dose refers to the amount of energy deposited in tissue but lacks the context of biological effect. The quality factor, while it relates to the type of radiation and its effectiveness in causing biological damage, does not specifically address the variation in sensitivity among different tissues. Thus, the tissue weighting factor is the key component in the calculation of effective dose, enabling a more accurate reflection of