ASSESSMENT OF THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF MODERN RADIATION EXPOSURE FACTORS ON THE PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Radiation exposure has become an unavoidable component of modern life because children and adolescents encounter natural background radiation, ultraviolet radiation, medical imaging, therapeutic radiation, and non-ionizing electromagnetic fields from digital technologies. The influence of these factors on growth and development cannot be described only as harmful or only as useful. Controlled radiation technologies contribute to early diagnosis, effective treatment, cancer therapy, dental and orthopedic care, and public health interventions. At the same time, excessive or unjustified exposure may increase the risk of DNA damage, malignancy, thyroid disorders, cataracts, skin damage, psychological anxiety, and developmental vulnerability. The present narrative review analyzes the positive and negative effects of modern radiation exposure factors on the physical and psychophysiological development of children and adolescents. The study synthesizes scientific literature, international radiation protection recommendations, and evidence related to pediatric radiosensitivity. The findings indicate that the most important principle in pediatric radiation safety is not complete avoidance, but justified, optimized, age-adapted, and dose-controlled use. Medical radiation should be applied only when it changes diagnosis or treatment, while non-ionizing technologies should be managed through rational use, distance, time control, and health education. The article emphasizes the need for integrated radiation hygiene in schools, families, and pediatric healthcare.