What type of long-term effects can radiation injury cause?

Long-term effects of radiation exposure can include both cancer and genetic changes, making this option the most comprehensive choice.

Cancer is a well-documented risk associated with radiation, as it can lead to the transformation of healthy cells into malignant ones over time due to DNA damage. This transformation may not manifest until many years later, depending on various factors such as the dose of radiation, the type of tissue affected, and individual susceptibility.

In addition to cancer, radiation can cause genetic changes. This occurs because radiation can damage the DNA within cells, creating mutations that can be passed down to future generations if those cells are reproductive cells. Such genetic changes can lead to inherited conditions or increased susceptibility to diseases in offspring.

The other options focus on either singular issues or immediate effects. Only mentioning cancer neglects the genetic impact that can arise from radiation exposure. Cataract formation is indeed a potential long-term consequence of radiation, but framing it as the sole effect does not capture the broader spectrum of risks. Immediate pain and discomfort typically relate to acute radiation sickness or injury rather than long-term outcomes. Therefore, recognizing both cancer and genetic changes provides a more accurate understanding of the long-term effects associated with radiation exposure.