Radiological terrorism

A radiological terrorist attack on the United States is a possibility. This could involve the dispersal of radioactive material by an attack on a nuclear facility, deployment of a radiation dispersal device, or, less likely, detonation of a nuclear weapon. To decrease our vulnerability to this type of threat, the medical community should have a basic understanding of radiation hazards and their medical management, and it should be prepared to interact with appropriate federal agencies to facilitate the employment of emergency response plans.