Radiation is not something most people think about very often, and when they do, they usually turn to its effects as portrayed in movies. These being namely that exposure to radiation will either turn them into a hideous monster or a superhero.
Although radiation is great fuel for any Hollywood script, it’s more than sci-fi fodder. It’s part of your real world. While it is not something you should fear, you should be aware of it.
To that end, here are five things you may not know about radiation.
1. You are exposed to radiation every day
One-third of the U.S. population lives in a “nuclear shadow” area, meaning they live within 50 miles of a U.S. nuclear power plant.
Many people are also exposed to radiation every day through their work as dental assistants, medical practitioners, radiology technicians, chiropractors, etc.
2. It can come from man-made, terrestrial or cosmic sources
Not all radiation comes from man-made technology. Naturally occurring radiation is in Earth’s crust as well as in the floors and walls of homes, schools and businesses.
It is even in the food we eat and drink, and the air we breathe. Our own bodies — muscle, bones and tissue — contain naturally occurring radioactive elements as well.
3. It comes in multiple forms
Non-ionizing radiation, like that found in microwaves, radio waves and visible or infrared light, is largely harmless due to its low energy levels.
Ionizing radiation is found in gamma rays, X-rays and other sources. It has higher energy levels and can be harmful to the body if you are exposed to large doses or for a long period of time.
4. You can track radiation levels around you
Radiation is invisible, but that doesn’t mean you have to be blind to it. The Dosime device is a hybrid smart home and wearable personal dosimeter that captures real-time radiation exposure in the environment.
The accompanying app provides an immediate assessment of the ionizing radiation present in the homes, buildings and spaces you live, work and play that can potentially impact your health without your knowledge.
Dosime allows you to access accurate, reliable, easy-to-understand information in real-time to manage potential health risks and ensure peace of mind.
5. You bring it into your home every day with things you purchase
Your cat’s litter box is a common radiation source in your home, while Brazil nuts and bananas also give off small levels. The glossy paper appearing in the magazines you read requires a radioactive finish to achieve that shine.
The glaze used to decorate those antique jars could be radioactive if the uranium levels are high enough. Even your new granite countertops are a source as granite is one of the best rock sources for retaining natural radiation.
Radiation is around you every day, but that doesn’t mean you have to fear it. Remember, most is naturally occurring and your exposure to it won’t turn you into a monster, even if a superpower would be pretty cool. To learn more about the Dosime device and to see how it can help you monitor radiation levels around you, visit Dosime.com.
