Radiation-induced birth defect

DNA molecules may be modified by the unintentional addition or deletion of nucleotides or by substituting one nucleotide for another. The result is a mutation that is transmittable to offspring. Mutations can be induced by chemical substances. This is a major concern from a toxicological viewpoint because of the detrimental effects of many mutations and because substances that cause mutations often cause cancer as well. DNA malfunction may result in birth defects, and the failure to control cell reproduction results in cancer. Radiation from x-rays and radioactivity also disrupts DNA and may cause mutation. 

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