Radiation hormesis: may the force be with you

Radiation hormesis is the name given to the stimulatory and arguably beneficial effects of low level ionizing radiation. This paper examines some of the evidence which has been quoted in support of the variety of claims which fall within the radiation hormesis rubric. Some of the research findings provide strong support for radiation hormetic effects. Despite this supporting evidence, there have been good quality studies whose findings have not supported the radiation hormesis proposition leaving the question of the biological effects of low level ionizing radiation on humans unanswered. 13 refs., 1 tab., 7 figs