Correction: Braverman, E.R., et al. Managing Terrorism or Accidental Nuclear Errors, Preparing for Iodine-131 Emergencies: A Comprehensive Review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 4158–4200 (original) (raw)
2014, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
https://doi.org/10.3390/IJERPH110807803
Sign up for access to the world's latest research
checkGet notified about relevant papers
checkSave papers to use in your research
checkJoin the discussion with peers
checkTrack your impact
Abstract
The authors wish to make the following amendments to their paper published in International Journal of Environmnetal Research and Public Health [1]: [...]
Related papers
Estimation of health hazards resulting from a radiological terrorist attack in a city
Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 2008
In recent years, the concern for protection of urban populations against terror attacks involving radiological, biological or chemical substances has attracted increasing attention. This sets new demands to decision support and consequence assessment tools, where the focus has traditionally been on accidental exposure. This paper is aimed at illustrating issues that need to be considered in evaluating the radiological consequences of a 'dirty bomb' explosion. This is done through a worked example of simplified calculations of relative dose contributions for a specific 'dirty bomb' scenario leading to atmospheric dispersion of 90 Sr contamination over a city area. Also the requirements of atmospheric dispersion models for such scenarios are discussed.
The impact of Fukushima on global health: lessons learned from man-made and natural disasters
Health and technology, 2014
On July 5, 2013 a special invited session entitled: "The Impact of Fukushima on Global Health-Lessons Learned from Man-Made and Natural Disasters" was held at the Osaka Convention Center in Osaka, Japan, during the 35th Annual International Conference of the IEEE-Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. The purpose of that session was mainly to discuss what happened at Fukushima, its repercussions and what other countries particularly those in South, Central and North America, can do to be better prepared for similar events. The first three authors of this paper participated in that special session. This article examines the causes and consequences of the nuclear accident that took place March 11, 2011, at the Fukushima Dai-ichi plant in Fukushima, Japan. It explains the different security risks associated with nuclear energy and analyzes the natural, man-made and technical causes of the Fukushima disaster. While nature was the main instigator, poor design, relaxed safety standards and lack of training severely exacerbated the damage and prolonged the effects of the incident. Crisis management strategies from the incident showed how cloud computing can be useful and effective in emergency response situations. However, the article's authors warn of potential failures due to infrastructure interdependencies and of the need to build resilient systems. The ongoing crisis in Fukushima serves as a testament to the different security risks associated with nuclear power and the serious, long lasting consequences they can have on critical infrastructures, the environment, public health, commerce and society-not just in Fukushima but anywhere in the world. In examining nuclear power as a viable energy resource, this article uses the Fukushima accident to encourage international discussion regarding the benefits and risks of nuclear power, the definition of government and utility company's roles and responsibilities to the public, and the possibility of pursuing alternative energy sources. Finally, through an analysis of these risks and the lessons learned from Fukushima, this article will present policy recommendations regarding better risk analysis, plant construction, secure practices, restoration of critical infrastructures and other elements of disaster response in order to create safer, more responsible nuclear energy policies worldwide. Keywords Security. Risks. Nuclear energy. Fukushima Dai-ichi. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO). Cesium −137. Iodine −131. Contamination. Radiation. Design. Emergency procedures. Critical infrastructures. Cloud computing. Crisis management. Disaster response. Policy recommendations. Risk analysis. Containment. Clean up procedures. Secure components. Secure people. Secure practices. Alternative sources of energy Disclaimer The views expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the William Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, the U.
Radiation Protection Management for Patients Treated with Iodine-131 in Islamic Cultures
Journal of the Islamic Medical Association of North America, 1997
35% of administered iodine, whereas renal, l1uombi, and adrenals also upk'lkc 1111. Brindle suggested that there is no need to pose any upper limit of 1111 activity for outpatient treatment regarding contamination hazardsY The Maximum Permissible Dose (MPD) limits have been in continuous review for a century in light of every new radiation data and finding. Meanwhile, a tremendous change also has occurred in the public aWtude toward radiation protection. The Effective Dose Equivalent (EDE) sct in 1960 became obsolete when the International Commission on Radiation Protection (lCRP) published recommendations in 1977. The U.S. Environmental Protec(jo/1 Agency (EPA) issued "Radiation Protection Guidance" to Federal Agencies for occupational exposure in 1987. The NatjonaJ Council for R.1diation Protection and Measurement (NCRP) and the ICRP revised tlleir recommendations in 1991. s . 6 Culver and Dworkin TJlC<1surcd radiation exposure on 59 patients and suggested adopting a radiation protection policy to fit the requirements. i Dydek and Blue found that excretion of 1111 into human breast milk requires a much longer period 111Ml previously reported. Aller the publication of Dydek and Blue's report, Remney et al admitted Ihat
Public Health and Medical Preparedness for a Nuclear Detonation
Health Physics, 2015
Resilience and the ability to mitigate the consequences of a nuclear incident are enhanced by (1) effective planning, preparation and training; (2) ongoing interaction, formal exercises, and evaluation among the sectors involved; (3) effective and timely response and communication; and (4) continuous improvements based on new science, technology, experience, and ideas. Public health and medical planning require a complex, multifaceted systematic approach involving federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments; private sector organizations; academia; industry; international partners; and individual experts and volunteers. The approach developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Nuclear Incident Medical Enterprise (NIME) is the result of efforts from government and nongovernment experts. It is a "bottom-up" systematic approach built on the available and emerging science that considers physical infrastructure damage, the spectrum of injuries, a scarce resources setting, the need for decision making in the face of a rapidly evolving situation with limited information early on, timely communication, and the need for tools and just-in-time information for responders who will likely be unfamiliar with radiation medicine and uncertain and overwhelmed in the face of the large number of casualties and the presence of radioactivity. The components of NIME can be used to support planning for, response to, and recovery from the effects of a nuclear incident. Recognizing that it is a continuous work-in-progress, the current status of the public health and medical preparedness and response for a nuclear incident is provided. Health Phys. 108(2):149-160; 2015
Consequences of atmospheric contamination by radioiodine: the Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents
Endocrine, 2020
Purpose After the accidents of nuclear power plants at Chernobyl and at Fukushima, huge amounts of radioactive iodine were released into the atmosphere. Methods We reviewed data on the health consequences of these accidents with a focus on thyroid consequences. Results Among the 2 million children who were living in highly contaminated regions in Belarus, Ukraine and Russia, 7000 cases of thyroid cancer had occurred in 2005. This is the most significant radiation-induced consequence of the Chernobyl accident. The increased incidence of thyroid cancer observed in adult population who lived in these highly contaminated regions is at least in major part related to screening and it is not possible to individualize among these thyroid cancers those that are potentially caused by radiation exposure. For populations who lived outside these regions at the time of the accident, there is no detectable consequence of the radiation exposure on the thyroid gland. Among children who lived nearby the Fukushima power plant in 2011, there is currently no evidence of an increased incidence of thyroid cancer. Ultrasonography screening in these individuals detected a number of thyroid cancers that are probably not related to the accident. Because thyroid cancer is frequent, studies have been carried out to distinguish radiation-induced from their sporadic counterparts, and genomic signatures might be helpful. Conclusions The consequences of the Chernobyl accident clearly demonstrate that populations living nearby a nuclear power plant should be protected in case of accident by sheltering, food restrictions and prophylaxis of thyroid irradiation by potassium iodine administration, if the predicted estimated dose to the thyroid gland of children might be >50 mGy. These countermeasures should be applied in priority to children, adolescents and pregnant women; they are safe and effective.
Clinical Toxicology, 2012
Background-In March of 2011, an earthquake struck Japan causing a tsunami that resulted in a radiological release from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Surveillance for potential radiological and any iodine/iodide product exposures was initiated on the National Poison Data System (NPDS) to target public health messaging needs within the United States (US). Our objectives are to describe self-reported exposures to radiation, potassium iodide (KI) and other iodine/iodide products which occurred during the US federal response and discuss its public health impact. Methods-All calls to poison centers associated with the Japan incident were identified from March 11, 2011 to April 18, 2011 in NPDS. Exposure, demographic and health outcome information were collected. Calls about reported radiation exposures and KI or other iodine/iodide product ingestions were then categorized with regard to exposure likelihood based on follow-up information obtained from the PC where each call originated. Reported exposures were subsequently classified as probable exposures (high likelihood of exposure), probable nonexposures (low likelihood of exposure), and suspect exposure (unknown likelihood of exposure). Results-We identified 400 calls to PCs associated with the incident, with 340 information requests (no exposure reported) and 60 reported exposures. The majority (n = 194; 57%) of the information requests mentioned one or more substances. Radiation was inquired about most frequently (n = 88; 45%), followed by KI (n = 86; 44%) and other iodine/iodide products (n = 47; 24%). Of the 60 reported exposures, KI was reported most frequently (n = 25; 42%
RADIOLOGICAL IMPACT OF RADIOACTIVE IODINE DISCHARGE AFTER HYPOTHETICAL NUCLEAR ACCIDENT
A modeling was performed in this study for iodine isotopes discharge from a hypothetical nuclear research reactor of thermal power of 20 MW, due to hypothetical severe nuclear accident in case of loss of ventilation system. The committed effective doses CED for the public around the reactor site was calculated for various atmospheric stability classes, Pasquill categories (A-F), using health physics HOTSPOT 2.06 code. The model was applied for three cases; without explosion of water, with explosion of water, and fusion in air. The results in the first case show that the receptor received CED lower than the permissible dose at any downwind distance from the reactor. In the second case, the receptor located within the distances 1.2 Km to 4.5 Km from the reactor received CED slightly more than the permissible dose. And for the third case, the receptor located within 50 Km from the reactor received CED more than the permissible dose. All the previous results of CED belong to the reactor site stability class (F).
Native American Exposure to Iodine-131 from Nuclear Weapons Testing in Nevada
2004
A great deal of work has been done reconstructing doses from Nevada Test Site fallout, yet the unique exposures of Native American communities continue to be neglected. It is possible to estimate the exposures of these communities through a process of collaborative information gathering and analysis. This paper builds on a previous exercise that demonstrated the substantial doses received through the consumption of contaminated game. The updated model includes new information on the deposition of iodine-131, an assessment of the neonatal thyroid doses received through breast milk, an exploration of the effect of population mobility on dose estimates, and estimates of thyroid cancer risk. All thyroid dose estimates from the rabbit exposure pathway are comparable in magnitude to National Cancer Institute comprehensive dose estimates that assume exposure to contaminated milk from backyard cows and goats. Dose estimates from the rabbit exposure pathway are larger than estimated doses fr...
Loading Preview
Sorry, preview is currently unavailable. You can download the paper by clicking the button above.
References (1)
- Braverman, E.R.; Blum, K.; Loeffke, B.; Baker, R.; Kreuk, F.; Yang, S.P.; Hurley, J.R. Managing terrorism or accidental nuclear errors, preparing for Iodine-131 emergencies: A comprehensive review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 4158-4200.
Related papers
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2014
Chernobyl demonstrated that iodine-131 (131 I) released in a nuclear accident can cause malignant thyroid nodules to develop in children within a 300 mile radius of the incident. Timely potassium iodide (KI) administration can prevent the development of thyroid cancer and the American Thyroid Association (ATA) and a number of United States governmental agencies recommend KI prophylaxis. Current pre-distribution of KI by the United States government and other governments with nuclear reactors is probably ineffective. Thus we undertook a thorough scientific review, regarding emergency response to 131 I exposures. We propose: (1) pre-distribution of KI to at risk populations; (2) prompt administration, within 2 hours of the incident; (3) utilization of a lowest effective KI dose;
Implementation of WHO's guidelines for iodine prophylaxis following nuclear accidents: Update 1999
International Congress Series, 2002
Intervention levels for emergency response are for national authorities to decide, but the latest information suggests that stable iodine prophylaxis for children up to the age of 18 years be considered at 10 mGy, that is 1/10th of the generic intervention level expressed in the International basic safety standards for protection against ionizing radiation and for the safety of radiation sources. For adults over 40, the scientific evidence suggests that stable iodine prophylaxis not be recommended unless doses to the thyroid from inhalation are expected to exceed levels that would threaten thyroid function. This is because the risk of radiation induced thyroid carcinoma in this group is very low while, on the other hand, the risk of side effects increases with age. The latest information on the balance of risks and benefits will also need to be properly considered in the plans for any distribution and storage of stable iodine. It suggests that stockpiling is warranted, when feasible, over much wider areas than normally encompassed by emergency planning zones, and that the opportunity for voluntary purchase be part of national plans.
Iodine prophylaxis and nuclear accidents
Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju, 1999
Due to high volatility and environmental mobility, radioactive isotopes of iodine pose a serious risk in the acute phases of a nuclear accident. The critical organ for iodine is the thyroid. A number of studies dealing with thyroid protection from exposure to radioiodine have shown that radioiodine uptake by the thyroid can be effectively blocked by administration of stable iodine, usually in the form of potassium iodide (KI) pills. However, unless perfectly timed, this protective action may be counterproductive. The International Atomic Energy Agency recommends potassium iodide prophylaxis in cases when an avertable thyroid dose by protective action exceeds 100 mGy. This paper reviews experiences and practices with potassium iodide in the thyroid protection. This kind of information should serve as the basis for discussion and decision making on KI prophylactic programmes in nuclear emergency situations in Croatia. If Croatia adopts such programme, it will still have to develop the...
Lessons learned from responses to past events have shown that more guidance is needed for the response to radiation emergencies (in this context, a 'radiation emergency' means the same as a 'nuclear or radiological emergency') which could lead to severe deterministic effects. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) requirements for preparedness and response for a radiation emergency, inter alia, require that arrangements shall be made to prevent, to a practicable extent, severe deterministic effects and to provide the appropriate specialised treatment for these effects. These requirements apply to all exposure pathways, both internal and external, and all reasonable scenarios, to include those resulting from malicious acts (e.g. dirty bombs). This paper briefly describes the approach used to develop the basis for emergency response criteria for protective actions to prevent severe deterministic effects in the case of external exposure and intake of radioactive material.
Sources, Pathways, and Health Effects of Iodine in the Environment
2021
The present conflict in Ukraine is considered one of the most significant crises in Europe since the disintegration of Yugoslavia. Moreover, it is taking place in a very specific area with special interests of external actors. The conflict, which has escalated into a war, has been regulated and, in fact, frozen, due to the participation of international organisations. This study focuses on the role of three European security organisations-the European Union (eu), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (nato) and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (osce)-in the de-escalation and resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. The qualitative case study examines the ability of the selected organisations to take a position and enter the conflict. The study proves that the ability of an organisation to enter the conflict is, to a certain extent, determined by its position towards the conflict (resulting particularly from its membership) and by the tools available to it.
Fukushima and Reflections on Radiation as a Terror Weapon
2014
The number of radiation casualties from the March 2011 meltdown of Fukushima nuclear reactors stands at zero. In Fukushima Prefecture, the casualties from radiation terror number more than 1,600, exceeding direct deaths from the natural disaster in that area, because of government-mandated evacuation that forced people from their homes and usual support systems into crowded evacuation centers. The U.S. is vulnerable to the same radiation terror as occurred in Japan because of using the wrong dose-response model, which is based on the linear no-threshold hypothesis (LNT), for assessing radiation health risks. The effects of low-dose radiation are in fact grossly misstated. The resulting fear-based regulatory regime deprives people of life-saving technology. In the event of a nuclear detonation or dispersal of radioactive material, panic could cause preventable mass casualties, and ignorance- or fear-based official directives could thwart rescue efforts and produce disastrous economic...
Radiation protection dosimetry, 2016
Following a radiological or nuclear emergency, first responders and the public may become internally contaminated with radioactive materials, as demonstrated during the Goiânia, Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents. Timely monitoring of the affected populations for potential internal contamination, assessment of radiation dose and the provision of necessary medical treatment are required to minimize the health risks from the contamination. This paper summarizes the guidelines and tools that have been developed, and identifies the gaps and priorities for future projects.
Science Progress, 2021
The International Atomic Energy Agency defines a nuclear and radiation accident as an occurrence that leads to the release of radiation causing significant consequences to people, the environment, or the facility. During such an event involving a nuclear reactor, the reactor core is a critical component which when damaged, will lead to the release of significant amounts of radionuclides. Assessment of the radiation effect that emanates from reactor accidents is very paramount when it comes to the safety of people and the environment; whether or not the released radiation causes an exposure rate above the recommended threshold nuclear reactor safety. During safety analysis in the nuclear industry, radiological accident analyses are usually carried out based on hypothetical scenarios. Such assessments mostly define the effect associated with the accident and when and how to apply the appropriate safety measures. In this study, a typical radiological assessment was carried out on the G...