Radiobiology > Stochastic Effects > Introduction
Stochastic Effects
Stochastic effects are those for which…
- Probability that an effect will occur is related to exposed dose
- Severity of effect is unrelated to exposed dose – i.e., these are “all or nothing” events
- Involve a degree of randomness
Unlike deterministic effects, most models of stochastic risk do not recognize a threshold dose.
Two major examples of stochastic radiation risk:
- Hereditary/Genetic Effects
- Carcinogenesis
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