What dangers would I be facing??

[psustudent5]

Someone close to me does not want me to go into nursing from carcinogen exposure in hospitals. My grandmother died of stage four lung cancer and my other grandmother was diagnosed with cancer of the uterus. How much exposure is there? Is there really more than other jobs or just daily life in general?

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

It depends on which area of nursing you select. Some specialties, such as oncology, radiology, and occupational health, might expose healthcare workers to enough carcinogens to impact one's health.

However, the vast majority of nursing specialties simply do not carry the risk.

Also, does cancer run in your family? While a person can be exposed to carcinogens, it is sometimes their genetic susceptibility that is enough to pull the trigger.

[GOMER42]

90% of lung cancers are due to smoking.

Really, the threat is minute (as compared to all the other interesting bugs we are exposed to)

[elkpark]

Also, equipment and training is provided to protect yourself from what risk there is. However, as already noted, in most specialties, there is v. little risk/exposure.

[Flare, ASN, BSN]

there is probably a risk no matter what career field you enter. There is a risk of developing cancer simply by existing. If you want to go into nursing, do it. If someone doesn't want you to, then have an open and frank discussion. Using risk of cancer as an excuse is pretty flimsy imho.

[caroladybelle, BSN, RN]

Yes, there are risks depending on your field, however, we also have plenty of protection available.

Now, the risks of living in industrialized USA....that is quite risky.