Which body parts are affected by beta radiation?

• A. Lungs
• B. Digestive tract
• C. Skin, eyes and extremities
• D. Whole body

Answer: (C)

Beta radiation consists of fast-moving electrons and has only shallow penetration into matter. Because of this, external exposure mainly affects tissues at the surface of the body. The skin and superficial tissues can be damaged, and exposed parts like the eyes and extremities (hands, feet) are at risk of burns or dermatitis from beta exposure. Lungs or the digestive tract would not be affected by external beta radiation unless the radioactive material is inhaled or ingested, bringing beta particles inside the body. Whole-body effects are more typical of radiation that deeply penetrates, such as gamma rays. So the areas most affected by beta radiation exposure are the skin, eyes, and extremities.