A step function model to evaluate the real monetary value of man-sievert with real GDP

Area of Science:

• Radiation Protection
• Health Economics
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Establishing optimal radiation protection levels requires accurate cost-benefit analyses.
• The principle of As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) guides radiation safety practices.
• Previous methods for assessing the monetary value of radiation exposure lacked country-specific realism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a unique, country-specific model for evaluating the monetary value of man-sievert in real economic terms for Korea.
• To establish optimum radiation protection levels under the ALARA principle.
• To provide a more realistic and informative approach to radiation protection practices.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of a discrete step function model.
• Incorporation of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), nominal risk coefficients for cancer and hereditary effects, radiation aversion factors, and average life expectancy.
• Differentiation of alpha values based on individual dose ranges.

Main Results:

• A unique, country-specific model for evaluating man-sievert monetary value in real economic terms was developed for Korea.
• The model provides differentiated alpha values across various individual dose ranges, enhancing realism.
• The model's reliance on GDP deflators allows for reflection of societal economic situations.

Conclusions:

• The developed Korean model offers a more realistic and informative approach to radiation protection cost-benefit analysis.
• The model's methodology can be generalized to other countries with simple adaptations.
• This approach supports the optimization of radiation protection strategies under the ALARA principle.