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Are some types of cancer more sensitive to radiation than others? If so, what makes them more sensitive?

a) Yes, due to variations in genetic factors.

b) Yes, due to differences in cell division rates.

c) No, all cancers are equally sensitive.

d) No, sensitivity is not related to cancer type.

User Yoorek
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Final answer:

Yes ,some cancers are more sensitive to radiation due to differences in cell division rates; rapidly dividing cancer cells are more susceptible to radiation damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, some types of cancer are more sensitive to radiation than others. This sensitivity is primarily due to differences in cell division rates. Cancer cells typically divide more rapidly than normal cells, making them more susceptible to damage from radiation. Because ionizing radiation damages DNA, which is critical for cell reproduction, it affects these rapidly dividing cancer cells more severely, potentially leading to their destruction. Therefore, the rate of cell reproduction is a key factor in the sensitivity of different cancers to radiation therapy.

User Andrey Volobuev
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