Radium poisoning occurs when a person ingests or inhales radioactive radium, a naturally occurring element. This can happen through contaminated water, food, or occupational exposure, particularly in industries that used radium for luminous paints. The radioactive particles can accumulate in the body, leading to serious health issues. Symptoms of radium poisoning may include anemia, bone pain, and fractures due to weakened bones. Long-term exposure can increase the risk of cancers, particularly bone cancer. The dangers of radium were notably highlighted in the early 20th century, especially with the tragic cases of the Radium Girls, who suffered severe health effects from working with radium-laced paint.