Which of the following can be a long-term consequence of radiation exposure?

The long-term consequences of radiation exposure primarily include biological effects that manifest over time due to damage inflicted at the cellular or tissue level. Organ damage and fibrosis are significant concerns following radiation exposure because high levels of ionizing radiation can lead to the death of cells and impaired function of healthy tissues.

When radiation penetrates the body, it can disrupt cellular structures and DNA, which may lead to chronic conditions, including the gradual replacement of normal tissue with fibrous scar tissue. This process can result in long-standing health issues, affecting organ function and potentially leading to conditions like pneumonitis in the lungs or radiation-induced cancer.

In contrast, immediate fatigue refers to a short-term symptom that may occur right after exposure and does not encompass long-term effects. Acute pain relief and increased productivity are not associated with the adverse outcomes of radiation; rather, they may be perceived benefits or unrelated effects that don’t address the potential damage caused by exposure. Thus, organ damage and fibrosis stand out as a clear and relevant long-term consequence of radiation exposure.