Radiation Exposures and Health Effects

(4 Credits)

This course introduces students to the general principles underlying the health effects of a variety of environmental radiation exposures. The purpose of this course is to provide basic theoretical and practical knowledge regarding different kinds of environmental radiation exposures and their subsequent health effects. Topics includes accidental or belligerent radiation exposure, dosimetry and quality control, countermeasures against radiation organ injury, and current scientific research. The goal is to familiarize students with various radiation exposure types and their health effects and and understanding of global impacts with public health concerns. Brief reviews of relevant methods and molecular approaches in radiation research and interpretation of results will be covered step by step in this course, as a supplement to an introductory radiation exposure lecture in the Principles of Toxicology class ( EHSC-GA 2310 ). Students will also be provided with examples of radiation exposures in medical, occupational and imaging settings. Students will also be required to read for weekly classes and to complete homework assignments in radiation exposure and health effects.