Why Radiobiology Is Important?

The widespread use of radiation in medicine, nuclear reactors, particle accelerators and other sophisticated nuclear facilities in South Africa makes it imperative that the interaction of radiation with biological systems is understood. For example, radiobiology is critical in radiation oncology and cancer treatment.

What is the importance of radiobiology?

Major applications of radiobiology

In general, radiobiology has two major applications where it is essential that intellectual capital be maintained, (1) the understanding and management of radiobiological risks to human populations and (2) the use of radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer.

What are the principles of radiobiology?

The fundamental principles of radiobiology are repair, redistribution, reoxygenation, and repopulation. These are known as the “Four Rs” of radiobiology. The concept of split dose repair was operationally described by Elkind in the 1960s.