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Answer to Question #2150 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Radiation Effects — Low-Dose Effects The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
I have been diagnosed with a blood disorder that the research I've done so far says may be caused by exposure to radiation. It's called MDS or myelodysplastic syndrome. I have been working in an airplane at varying altitudes for 18 years which has exposed me to more radiation than the average person. This blood disorder is acquired, not genetic. I was also exposed to chest x rays every year from 1966 to 1972 plus over the years, plus various tests requiring x rays. Any information you can give me about radiation and blood disorders would be appreciated.
A
The cause of myelodysplastic syndrome remains unknown. Several risk factors have been mentioned as possibilities, most prominently smoking. The long list of potential cofactors includes radiation, along with many chemicals, medicines, etc. However, there is no proof that any of these agents actually causes the disease.
It is understandable that anyone diagnosed with MDS would be searching for causative factors. However, such searches by anyone who lacks a broad understanding of the disease and its many ramifications is likely to be fruitless or worse—it could be misleading. The best advice should come from the attending physician who knows both the disease and the patient. If you are not getting fulfilling information from your physician, then a second opinion may be in order. S. Julian Gibbs, DDS
Answer posted on 9 April 2003. 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.
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