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Cardiovascular Disease
The World Health Organization cites several studies that claim people who are exposed to large doses of radiation have an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Emergency workers, for example, are a group of people more likely to suffer in this way. Also at risk are patients who undergo radiotherapy treatment, which exposes the heart to radiation.
Leukemia
Leukemia, which is a condition affecting the blood cells, has also been found to be more prevalent in populations exposed to large doses of radiation. The World Health Organization points out that there was an increased risk of leukemia among those who survived the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan in World War II. The nuclear disaster in Chernobyl was much less destructive than an atomic bomb, but the ionizing radiation that was released was similar to that of an atomic bomb. Increases in leukemia in the surrounding populations have been seen there as well.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a less life-threatening health risk that can result from exposure to ionizing radiation. In fact, even small doses of ionizing radiation can result in an increased risk of cataracts. Patients who receive CT head scans -- formerly known as CAT scans -- and astronauts who are exposed to the increased levels of radiation in space, for example, are at an increased risk of cataracts as a result of ionizing radiation. Fortunately, surgery is available to remove cataracts.
Cancer
Cancer is probably the most well-known and feared health risk associated with exposure to ionizing radiation. Aside from thyroid cancer and leukemia, however, the link between cancer and ionizing radiation is not very strong. In the case of thyroid cancer, treatment is fairly effective, and the death toll from thyroid cancer, in places like Chernobyl, for instance, is not extremely high, though treatment must continue for life.