Unregulated Radiation Exposure Poses Serious Health Risks, Expert Warns
An Assistant Director at the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), Dr. (Mrs) Amosu-Kareem Lateefat, has issued a stark warning about the dangers of improper use and over-exposure to radiation in daily life. Speaking as a guest lecturer during the 21st annual Family Day celebration organized by the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Women Council, held at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Lagos, she emphasized that while radiation is beneficial in fields like medicine and environmental management, it must be strictly controlled to prevent harm.
Health Effects of Radiation Exposure
Dr. Lateefat highlighted that radiation, if not properly managed, can lead to severe health consequences. She explained that excessive or poorly managed exposure results in two main types of effects: immediate damage from high doses and long-term risks, such as cancer, due to accumulated exposure over time. The event, themed "Understanding of Radiation and its Health Effects," served as a platform to educate attendees on these critical issues.
Medical and Everyday Radiation Sources
In her lecture, Dr. Lateefat stressed that medical use of radiation should always be justified and minimized. She noted that alternative diagnostic methods, like MRI scans, can sometimes replace radiation-based procedures to reduce exposure. Additionally, she cautioned against the dangers of prolonged exposure to mobile devices, warning that excessive use and poor habits, especially among youth, could pose serious health risks.
Call for Safer Habits and Awareness
The Chairperson of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Women Council, Risikat Adeyanju, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need to adopt safer habits when using everyday devices to mitigate overexposure to radiation. She expressed worry over the careless use of mobile phones, noting that many people remain unaware of the potential health dangers. Adeyanju also highlighted that the program aimed not only at health awareness but also at strengthening family unity and values.
Parental Guidance and Societal Challenges
Further contributing to the discussion, the Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Council, Jubril Kolawole, urged parents to enhance their guidance in shaping the behavior of the younger generation. He pointed out serious societal challenges facing youth today, noting that while some children exhibit positive behavior, others are negatively influenced by their environment. Kolawole emphasized the importance of intentional parenting and strict adherence to moral and religious teachings to improve the situation.
