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The potential for disease initiation by inhaled beta-emitting nuclear particles
1Abd Consultant, 517 Bear Cub Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946, United States.
Medical Hypotheses
|June 3, 2018
Summary
Radiation exposure from Three Mile Island accident particulates, primarily Strontium 89, caused severe immunosuppression and increased cancer rates. This study identifies an unrecognized exposure mechanism following nuclear accidents.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Chemistry and Toxicology
- Radiation Biology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Anecdotal reports of injuries post-nuclear accidents contrast with failed studies linking cancer rates to radioactive releases.
- A significant dose of at least 0.5 Sieverts is often indicated by observed injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To resolve the dissonance between anecdotal injury reports and epidemiological study findings after nuclear accidents.
- To identify an unrecognized exposure mechanism and its associated health effects from the Three Mile Island accident.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of knowledge regarding reactor releases and health effects from the Three Mile Island accident.
- Inference of a relationship between inhaled particulates and severe immunosuppression.
- Hypothesis formulation: Strontium 89 particulates caused observed health effects.
Main Results:
- Strontium 89 comprised over 90% of particulates, acting as point sources of chronic beta irradiation.
- Individuals beneath the plumes exhibited an abrupt rise in "Deaths from all Causes" consistent with severe immunosuppression.
- Observed excess cancers aligned with expected outcomes from doses of 0.5 Sieverts or more.
Conclusions:
- The hypothesis is validated, confirming Strontium 89 particulates as the cause of observed health effects post-Three Mile Island accident.
- This study reveals previously unknown mechanisms and effects of low LET beta irradiation from particulates.
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