What is a common effect of prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation?

Prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation is known to damage living tissues and cells and can lead to a variety of health issues. One of the most significant long-term effects of such exposure is the increased risk of cancer. This is primarily because ionizing radiation can cause mutations in the DNA of cells. When these mutations affect genes that regulate cell growth and division, they can lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation, or cancer.

Cancer can develop many years after the initial exposure, and the types of cancer that can result vary widely among individuals, depending on factors such as the dose of radiation, the duration of exposure, and the specific tissues affected. This relationship between ionizing radiation and cancer risk is well-established in radiobiology and is supported by numerous epidemiological studies.

The other options provided do not align with the established scientific understanding of ionizing radiation effects. There is no evidence suggesting that long-term exposure to ionizing radiation improves immune response or enhances tissue regeneration. In fact, such exposure can often suppress immune function, leading to higher susceptibility to infections. Additionally, fatigue levels typically increase rather than decrease as a result of radiation exposure, due to the strain on the body's cellular structures and overall health. Thus, increased risk of cancer remains the clear and scientifically supported