Radiation Damage Theory of Aging

It is considered by some investigators that aging is caused, at least in part, by harmful ionizing radiation from outer space, rocks, and the soil. Ionizing radiation produces several changes that are comparable to those observed during normal aging. It decreases life expectancy. After radiation, the observed death rate corresponds to the death rate in an older group. Following radiation, there is a reduction in the number of viable cells in many tissues. These cells are often replaced by elements of connective tissue. Hence, in many instances, the pathological changes that occur from radiation are similar to those found in normal aging.

( Int J Psychosom 1990;37(1-4):5-24: Morse DR; Rabinowitz H
A unified theory of aging.)

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X-ray exposure and premature aging.
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[Further studies on radiation-conditioned life-shortening of experimental animals after long-term irradiation]
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Accelerated aging of the insect Drosophila melanogaster by gamma irradiations of pupae.

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