A radioisotope is a unstable type of atomic element that can break down (i.e., decay), releasing small amounts of portions of atoms, related atomic elements, and energy.
Radioisotopes are considered carcinogenic, because people who are exposed to large amounts of radioisopes eventually can develop cancer.
However, small amounts of radioisotopes are used in nuclear medicine procedures for the diagnosis and imaging of cancer.
Also, radioisotopes may be used in certain types of radiation therapy for cancer patients. |