What is the risk of developing cancer during the fetal stage due to radiation exposure?

The risk of developing cancer during the fetal stage due to radiation exposure is significantly elevated compared to other life stages, primarily because the fetal cells are rapidly dividing and are more susceptible to the damaging effects of radiation. When the fetus is exposed to radiation, the cells may undergo mutations that could lead to cancer later in life.

Research suggests that the risk of cancer increases in a range of 2 to 5 times for a fetus exposed to radiation, especially during critical periods of development, such as the first trimester. This increased risk accounts for the greater vulnerability of fetal tissues and the potential for long-term consequences from relatively low doses of radiation.

In contrast, other options may overestimate the risk based on available studies and dosimetry data, which emphasize the more significant repercussions of radiation exposure in developing tissues but within a range that does not frequently exceed five times the baseline risk. Understanding this range helps in assessing the risks associated with various medical procedures involving radiation, particularly during pregnancy.