![]() Comparison of Deterministic and Stochastic Health EffectsÄeterministic effects generally have a threshold dose below which the effect does not occur. The table below summarizes the differences between deterministic and stochastic effects. Although it may not accurately describe all stochastic health effects, they are sometimes described as "long-term" health effects. This is the reason that no level of radiation dose is considered to be completely "safe" and why doses should always be kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). Stochastic health effects are assumed not to have a threshold dose below which they do not occur. Cancer is the main stochastic effect that can result from radiation dose, often many years following the exposure. ![]() The probability of the effect occurring in a population increases with the dose received, and the severity of the effect does not depend on the dose. Stochastic effects occur by statistical chance. Although it may not accurately describe all deterministic health effects, they are sometimes described as "short-term" health effects. Skin reddening (erythema) is an example of a deterministic effect with a threshold dose of approximately 300 rad (3 Gy). The severity of the effect increases with the dose. Deterministic effects occur after a threshold dose is reached, meaning at dose below the threshold are not expected to cause the particular effect. Health effects from radiation doses can be grouped into two categories: deterministic and stochastic. If not properly repaired, this damage can result in the death of the cell or potentially harmful changes in the DNA (i.e., mutations). When ionizing radiation interacts with cells, it can cause damage to the cells and genetic material (i.e., deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA). More information about external dose and internal dose is provided on the Hazard Recognition page. Information about chronic and acute radiation doses is provided on the Background page.
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