What are non-stochastic radiation effects typically characterized by?

Non-stochastic radiation effects are characterized by having clear thresholds, meaning that there is a specific level of exposure at which these effects begin to occur. Below this threshold, the effects do not manifest. These types of effects are typically associated with high levels of radiation exposure, leading to immediate health outcomes such as radiation burns or acute radiation syndrome. The presence of a threshold distinguishes non-stochastic effects from stochastic effects, where even low levels of exposure can result in effects such as cancer, without a known safe threshold level. Understanding this threshold is crucial for setting safety standards and guidelines for radiation exposure to minimize risks.