What type of radiation effect impacts future generations?

The genetic effect refers to radiation-induced changes that can be passed on to future generations through mutations in reproductive cells. When an individual is exposed to ionizing radiation, alterations can occur in the DNA of germ cells (sperm or egg cells). If these mutated cells participate in reproductive processes, the resulting offspring may inherit the genetic modifications, potentially leading to health risks or hereditary conditions.

In contrast, somatic effects are those that impact the individual exposed to radiation rather than their descendants, resulting from damage to non-reproductive cells. Acute effects arise from high doses of radiation over a short period, leading to immediate health issues such as radiation sickness. Chronic effects stem from prolonged exposure to lower doses, often manifesting later in life but still primarily affecting the individual exposed, rather than future generations. Thus, the identifier for effects that can impact lineage distinctly points to the genetic effects, which is the focus of this question.