Which of the following is a potential late effect of radiation therapy?

The development of secondary cancers is indeed a recognized late effect of radiation therapy. Radiation can induce mutations in the DNA of healthy cells in the treated area, and these mutations can lead to the formation of new (secondary) cancers years after the initial treatment. This is particularly important to consider in oncology nursing, as monitoring and educating patients about long-term risks associated with their treatment is an essential part of care.

Impaired vision may occur in individuals who receive radiation therapy in areas close to the eyes, particularly in head and neck radiation, but this is not classified specifically as a late effect since it typically arises in direct relation to the treatment field. Immediate hair loss usually happens as an acute effect of radiation therapy in the treated area, not later on. Decreased appetite can be a side effect during treatment but does not specifically connect to late effects of radiation therapy. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effectively managing patient care in oncology settings.