[ RadSafe ] DNA can be damaged by very low-energy radiation

[Bill Prestwich]

Could this have implications for the use of photodynamic therapy in the
treatment of macular degeneration?

Bill Prestwich


-----Original Message-----
From: radsafe-bounces at agni.phys.iit.edu
[mailto:radsafe-bounces at agni.phys.iit.edu] On Behalf Of Clayton J Bradt
Sent: Friday, March 14, 2014 3:56 PM
To: radsafe at agni.phys.iit.edu
Subject: Re: [ RadSafe ] DNA can be damaged by very low-energy radiation



I don't quite understand what is intended by this statement in the news
release:

"It is noteworthy that industry presently characterizes as "eye-safe"
lasers that emit at wavelengths
longer than 1300 nm. But it is such wavelengths that are proficient at
inducing damage to DNA: how safe is "eye-safe" when DNA in the eye can be
readily damaged?"

Laser radiation in the IR region of the spectrum is a potential cataract
hazard, depending on the intensity of the beam and exposure duration.
"Eye-safe" has no technical meaning as far as ANSI or IEC standards are
concerned.   Classification of laser hazards depends upon more than just
wavelength.

Are the researchers saying that the hazard of laser induced cancer of the
cornea has to be controlled for in addition to cataracts?

Clayton J. Bradt
Principal Radiophysicist
NYS Dept. of Health
518-474-1993
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