CLINICAL MEDICINE

Detailed explanation-1: -Direct-type damage results from radiation energy being deposited directly into the DNA, whereas indirect damage occurs when the species created by the interaction of the primary radiation and SEs within the molecular environment surrounding the DNA (e.g., salts, proteins, oxygen and water) react with the molecule.

Detailed explanation-2: -If the absorption of radiation occurs in the molecule in which the lesion appears, then this is the direct action of radiation, while with indirect action the absorption of the radiation energy and the response to this energy occur in different molecules.

Detailed explanation-3: -Indirectly ionizing particles are uncharged particles that can release directly ionizing particles or can initiate a nuclear transformation. Examples include, but are not limited to, neutrons and gamma rays.

Detailed explanation-4: -Exposure to very high levels of radiation, such as being close to an atomic blast, can cause acute health effects such as skin burns and acute radiation syndrome (“radiation sickness"). It can also result in long-term health effects such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.