Unit 1.9

Question 1

Define the Term Health Risk.

Answer 1

Something that may endanger health (radiation is an example).

Question 2

Define the Absolute Risk and Relative Risk Models and how they differ.

Answer 2

Absolute Risk model: Radiation induces a “crop” of cancers over and above the natural incidence and unrelated to the natural risk.
Relative Risk Model: Radiation increases the natural incidence at all ages, expressed as a percent increase of the normal rate of occurrence.

Question 3

Name the 2 committees that produce cancer risk estimates related to radiation?

Answer 3

UN Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR)
Committee of the US National Academy of Sciences - Biological Effects of Radiation (BEIR)

Question 4

Compare the radiation doses received by Naval Nuclear Propulsion as it compares to commercial power.

Answer 4

NNPP is better than commercial at ALARA.

In 2013, NNPP average annual exposure was 12mrem; Commercial was 64mrem.

Question 5

List the three types of dose response curves and which do we use?

Answer 5

Linear no-threshold (we use this one as it assumes the highest amount), Non-linear quadratic, and hormesis.

Question 6

Why is there no maximum dose for Medical uses of radiation?

Answer 6

Because it is a risk/benefit decision.

Question 7

List the organizations involved with radiation protection.

Answer 7

ICRP focuses on Radon effects, Internal Exposure, External Exposure, and Application of the recommendations of the commission.
ICRU develops recommendations on quantities of radiation, procedures that are used for measurement, and physical data used in reporting.
NCRP acts as the clearinghouse for radiation protection.
NRC ensures public health and safety in the US related to radiation.

Question 8

What is the increase in cancer death risk related to ionizing radiation?

Answer 8

0.04%.