Answer to Question #1670 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

What are the effects of radiation on a long-term caregiver female, age 70, caring for a patient, age 70+, who has been receiving radiation treatment for superior vena cava syndrome?

There is no radioactivity induced in the patient from external-beam radiation therapy. The radiation ceases to exist when the machine switches off. The patient gets irradiated only while the machine is on. There could be long-delayed effects in the patient, but the benefits of the therapy outweigh this possibility.

Conclusion: Since there is no radiation, there is no risk of adverse effects to the caregiver—or anyone else who comes near the patient.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

Answer posted on February 11, 2002. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.