A1: Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome

Written by Neons-Mindrealm

Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome (RISRS)

Introduction:

Overview: Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome is a chronic condition which approximately affects half of the earth's population. In which affected individuals are permanently reduced to a size of roughly 5-10 centimeters tall.
Historical Context: The first and only time this syndrome occurred was in April 2137, during the global catastrophe known as “The Shrinking”.
Ever since then, new cases of Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome have not been reported yet, leaving the ones affected by the original wave to be the only known cases of this condition.

Etiology:

Primary Cause: Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome was caused by an unstable and uncontrolled release of a radioactive wave from the Size Altering Mechanism.
Whether this was caused intentionally or by accident through a critical malfunction remains unclear, though.

Epidemiology:

Incidence: It is believed that approximately 50% of the human population has been affected by RISRS.
Distribution: The distribution of said syndrome appears to be spread out rather evenly across different areas of the world.

Pathophysiology:

Mechanism: Through the manipulation of cells on an atomic level via radiation, the overall mass of the affected person was drastically reduced in size, while still retaining their humanoid physique and bodily functions.
Biological Impact: Besides the drastic alteration of the individual's size, the radiation causing RISRS does not appear to have any other major impact on the human organism. The affected individuals retain their physical health and biological functions, with no significant radiation-induced damage or systemic health issues observed beyond the size reduction.

Clinical Presentation:

Primary Symptoms: Reduction in physical size to around 5-10 centimeters tall.
Secondary Symptoms: Increased susceptibility to injury, higher risk of conducting other illnesses, heightened anxiety or depression, body dysmorphic disorder, social isolation.

Diagnosis:

Criteria: Height below 20 centimeters post-event.
Diagnostic Methods: Physical measurement.

Differential Diagnosis:

Conditions to Rule Out: Due to the extraordinary criteria of RISRS, the diagnostic of RISRS can not be compared to other known conditions.

Management and Treatment:

Current Status: No cure, but manageable through adaptations in lifestyle and environment.
Supportive Care: Adaptation strategies, psychological support, supervision by an individual unaffected by RISRS, medical care for secondary symptoms.

Prognosis:

Short-term: Immediately after the catastrophe known as “The Shrinking,” affected individuals struggled to adjust to their new-found size and the increased hazards of their environment. With no proper safety measures in place, many who were affected by RISRS often did not survive longer than 1 or 2 months, especially those caught outside during the event.
Long-term: Under the close supervision of specialists or relatives, and with proper adjustments to their living environment, individuals affected by RISRS are able to lead somewhat normal and healthy lives. Special shelters and communities, created in the fall of 2137, offer safe places for those affected by RISRS to continue their daily activities and maintain a sense of normalcy.

Impact on Society:

Social Dynamics: Changes in relationships and societal roles.
Economic Impact: Loss of employment, increased healthcare costs, decreased economic contributions.
Legal and Ethical Issues: Potential ethical and legal concerns due to the legal changes stated in the Shrunken Reform.

Research and Future Directions:

Ongoing Studies: Research efforts and studies are currently ongoing to potentially reverse the effects of RISRS.
Potential Developments: Future treatments and a reversal of the size alteration caused by RISRS.

Case Studies:

Example Cases:
Case 1: A 26-year-old man, affected by RISRS, went missing just a few days after the events of “The Shrinking”. He was later declared dead due to futile search efforts.
Case 2: A 35-year-old woman, affected by RISRS, managed to overcome severe anxiety and reintegrate into society after being relocated to a Shrunken Community.

References:

Sources: World Health Organization. “Global Reports on Radiation-Induced Size Reduction Syndrome.”

Type

Physiological