What do genetic effects of radiation exposure affect?

Genetic effects of radiation exposure primarily impact the future children of the exposed individual. This is because genetic effects arise from alterations in the DNA of the reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) due to radiation exposure. If these altered reproductive cells are involved in conception, the resulting offspring may inherit these genetic changes.

This understanding is rooted in the mechanism of how radiation can cause mutations in the genetic material, which may not manifest until subsequent generations. These genetic mutations can lead to various health issues or developmental abnormalities in future children, which emphasizes the importance of shielding reproductive cells during radiological procedures.

The other options involve direct or immediate effects on individuals already exposed, their family members, or colleagues, which are categorized under somatic effects rather than genetic effects. Somatic effects are those that impact the individual's health directly and can manifest in the person exposed within their lifetime, unlike genetic effects that have implications for descendants.