Radiation risks at a glance
Website design By BotEap.comIt’s easy to be scared and nervous regarding recent news from Japan when it is described in such ominous terms. There is no doubt that the earthquake and the consequent loss of life and property has been tragic and sudden.
Website design By BotEap.comThe nature of news reports is often negative and inflammatory. The repetition also sets an ominous and foreboding tone; however, a closer examination of the facts is necessary to understand the implications for the rest of the global community and for each of us as individuals. The fear of something catastrophic over which you have no control serves to increase our fear and anxiety about circumstances.
Website design By BotEap.comRadiation is one of those dangers that is invisible and something that most people only understand through science fiction movies. Usually when it comes to the unknown, the average person is prone to being suspicious, confused, anxious, and distrustful. The reality is the science of radiation, its capabilities and risks are well understood. The radiation released from a nuclear power accident is different from that from a nuclear bomb. Even taking into account the explosions that have occurred in Japanese nuclear reactors, there is a big difference in the type of radiation released. It does not look at all like a nuclear bomb as seen in images from tests in the Nevada desert or in old World War II movies.
Website design By BotEap.comWithin 10 to 50 miles of the disaster, there are significant short-term and long-term risks. Fortunately, we are about 5,000 miles away. For decades, a very good network throughout the United States monitors the amount of radiation in the atmosphere every day in real time. This was very effective in understanding the risks of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster and several other international nuclear power plant accidents. This is complemented by portable monitors throughout areas of the West Coast of the US Fear simply doesn’t have to be part of the conversation.
Website design By BotEap.comWhat do you need to know and understand? The amount of radiation likely to reach the United States is very small compared to the amount of background radiation that we are already exposed to on a daily basis. No one needs to take specific actions at this time. It is unlikely that anything will need to be done in the US to protect ourselves as there is no particular risk from events in Japan.
Website design By BotEap.comOf note is the distribution by Japanese health officials of potassium iodide to people in local areas of potential contamination. Potassium iodide has limited utility for protection against thyroid cancer due to exposure to radioactive iodide, a dangerous isotope commonly released in a nuclear power accident. Timing and dosage are critical. It should only be used by those at highest risk, including infants, children, and young adults. It is not 100% effective and does not protect against other types of cancer. There are potential side effects even though it is sold without a prescription. The Center for Disease Control does not recommend any such action for anyone in the US, nor do they anticipate that this will be necessary due to the current disaster in Japan. Do not be misled or misinformed on this point.
Website design By BotEap.comEvents are still ongoing with a final chapter yet to come; however, considering the distance between the radiation source in Japan and the US, there is little concern at this time. The dilution and scattering of radiation over long distances keeps the amount in the atmosphere quite low. Should any additional radiation be avoided? Of course there are, however there are bigger risks, which are actually trivial, much closer to home. As my colleagues have so aptly pointed out, there is a greater risk of environmental radiation in Denver than in Tokyo, which is less than 150 miles from the disaster site.
Website design By BotEap.comBeing aware of disasters in the world and understanding the facts is the best thing you can do. If you have any further questions or concerns, please consult your primary healthcare provider or local health department for information. The Center for Disease Control remains a trusted resource for good up-to-date advice.