GCSE Physics - Using Radiation in Medicine #37

The video discusses the use of radiation in medicine, focusing on radiotherapy for cancer treatment and medical traces for diagnosis. It explains how ionising radiation can damage cells and DNA, potentially causing cancer, but also how it can be used to destroy cancer cells. Radiotherapy can be delivered externally or internally, each with side effects. Medical traces involve using radioactive isotopes to diagnose organ function. The video emphasizes the importance of weighing the risks and benefits of radiation, highlighting that while it can be harmful, it is often worth the risk for diagnosis and treatment.

How do medical traces work and what is their purpose?

Discuss the importance of weighing risks against benefits when using radiation in medicine.