What condition often results from prolonged exposure to high levels of radiation?

Prolonged exposure to high levels of radiation is widely recognized as a significant risk factor for developing cancer. This is because radiation can cause damage to the DNA within cells. When the DNA is altered, it can lead to mutations that may disrupt normal cellular functions. If these mutations affect genes that regulate cell growth and division, they can contribute to uncontrolled cell proliferation, which is characteristic of cancer.

Cancer can manifest in various forms, depending on the type of cells affected and the location of the damage. Common types associated with radiation exposure include leukemia and cancers of the breast, thyroid, and lung. The relationship between radiation exposure and increased cancer risk is well-documented and is a critical concern in radiological health and safety protocols, both in medical settings and in industries where radiation is encountered.

The other conditions mentioned may arise from different factors or situations but are not directly tied to the specific long-term effects of high-dose radiation exposure to the same extent as cancer.