Define 'somatic effects' in the context of radiation exposure.

In the context of radiation exposure, somatic effects refer specifically to the effects that occur in the individual who has been exposed to radiation, rather than effects that are genetic or passed on to offspring. These effects can manifest in various ways, such as radiation burns, cancer development, or other health issues that arise directly within the exposed individual.

Somatic effects are distinct from genetic effects, which involve changes to the reproductive cells that may be transmitted to future generations. The focus on the individual exposed highlights the immediate consequences of radiation exposure, such as damage to body tissues or organs, while ensuring an understanding that these effects do not directly influence the genetic makeup of offspring. This differentiation is critical in the study of radiation biology as it influences both clinical considerations and risk assessment strategies related to exposure scenarios.