Final answer:
The rapidly dividing cells affected by chemotherapy and radiation therapy include bone marrow, intestinal tissue, hair follicles, and reproductive organs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rapidly dividing cells that are affected by chemotherapy and radiation therapy include:
- Bone marrow: The cells in the bone marrow are responsible for producing blood cells, and chemotherapy and radiation can damage these cells, leading to a decrease in blood cell production.
- Intestinal tissue: The lining of the intestines contains rapidly dividing cells that are susceptible to damage from chemotherapy and radiation, which can result in side effects like diarrhea and nausea.
- Hair follicles: Hair follicles are also made of rapidly dividing cells, and chemotherapy can cause hair loss as a result of damaging these cells.
- Reproductive organs: The cells in the reproductive organs, such as the ovaries or testes, are rapidly dividing. Chemotherapy and radiation can affect these cells, potentially leading to infertility or other reproductive issues.