What are the Risks of Radiation Therapy in Neonates?
The use of radiation therapy in neonates carries significant risks. These include: - Developmental Delays: Exposure to radiation can interfere with normal brain development, potentially leading to cognitive and physical delays. - Growth Impairment: Radiation can affect the growth plates in bones, leading to stunted growth or uneven limb lengths. - Secondary Cancers: Exposure to radiation at a young age increases the risk of developing secondary malignant tumors later in life. - Organ Damage: Sensitive organs such as the thyroid, lungs, and heart can be damaged by radiation, leading to long-term health issues.
