What is "radiophobia"

n. 1 The fear of radiation. 2 The fear of X-rays.

Radiophobia is an abnormal fear of ionizing radiation, in particular, fear of X-rays. While such radiation may be harmful given sufficient exposure (i.e. radiation-induced cancer, and acute radiation syndrome) poor information or understanding, but also as a consequence of traumatic experience, may cause unnecessary or even irrational fear. The term is also used in a non-medical sense to describe the opposition to the use of nuclear technology (i.e. nuclear power) arising from concerns disproportionately greater than actual risks would merit.