The Elements: Radium

Radium, discovered by the Curies, is a highly radioactive element derived from uranium decay. Initially celebrated for its supposed healing properties, it was used in various products. However, its intense radioactivity poses severe health risks, including cancer. Despite these dangers, radium remains valuable in medicine, particularly in cancer treatment, due to its ability to target cancer cells more effectively than healthy ones.

In what ways was radium used in the early 20th century?

Despite its dangers, how is radium utilized in medicine today?