Assessing Risks of Internal Exposure to Cs137 from Fukushima Radiation

Radiation dust from the Fukushima nuclear power plant?

In light of the fact that the Atomic Energy Commission has assessed the risks of external ionizing radiation to the human body but has not addressed the risks of internal low-dose long-term radiation, and considering that the half-life of Cs-137 is 30 years, with over 90% of Cs-137 still present since the nuclear disaster occurred only 5 years ago, could my accidental exposure to individuals from Fukushima for more than 2 hours significantly increase my risk of exposure to Cs-137? If I were to be exposed to Cs-137 and it inadvertently entered my body, what methods are available to test for or accelerate the metabolism or elimination of Cs-137? Thank you.

Xiao Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/27

Dr. Sun Shengyi reply Radiology

Residents who have been in the Fukushima nuclear disaster area may be contaminated with cesium-137, and detection can only be confirmed using radiation detection instruments.
If there has been close contact with others who are contaminated, the potential radiation exposure will depend on the amount of radiation emitted from the other person's body, which raises concerns primarily about external radiation exposure.
The actual radiation dose received needs to be assessed by identifying potential sources of radiation, and then it can be estimated whether it exceeds permissible limits.
Cesium-137 can enter the body through contaminated food, drinking water, or inhalation of airborne particles, so there is generally no need to worry about being contaminated with cesium-137 through direct human contact.
Individuals confirmed to be contaminated with cesium-137 can seek assistance at specialized radiation hospitals (such as National Taiwan University Hospital) to use specific medications that promote the excretion of the substance from the body.

Reply Date: 2016/03/27

More Info

Assessing the risks of internal exposure to Cesium-137 (Cs-137) from the Fukushima disaster is a complex issue that requires an understanding of radiation exposure, the behavior of radioactive isotopes in the human body, and the potential health effects associated with such exposure.

Cs-137 is a radioactive isotope that was released during the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011. With a half-life of approximately 30 years, it poses a long-term risk due to its persistence in the environment. The primary concern with Cs-137 is its ability to be absorbed by the body, particularly when ingested or inhaled, leading to internal radiation exposure.
Regarding your concern about being in close contact with individuals from Fukushima for over two hours, it is important to note that the risk of significant internal exposure to Cs-137 from casual contact is generally low. Cs-137 primarily poses a risk through ingestion or inhalation of contaminated food, water, or particles. The likelihood of absorbing a harmful dose of Cs-137 through skin contact or brief proximity to individuals is minimal, especially if they are not exhibiting any signs of contamination.

If you are concerned about potential internal exposure to Cs-137, there are several methods for assessing and mitigating the risks:
1. Medical Evaluation: If you suspect that you have been exposed to Cs-137, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough evaluation and may recommend specific tests to assess your exposure levels.

2. Radiological Screening: There are specialized tests available, such as whole-body counting, which can detect the presence of radioactive isotopes in the body. This method involves using a gamma-ray detector to measure radiation emitted from the body.

3. Decontamination and Metabolism: If Cs-137 is ingested or inhaled, the body has limited mechanisms to eliminate it. However, certain treatments can help facilitate the excretion of radioactive materials. For example, potassium iodide can be administered in cases of iodine-131 exposure, but it is not effective for Cs-137. Instead, chelation therapy, which involves the administration of agents that bind to heavy metals and facilitate their excretion, may be considered in specific cases of heavy metal poisoning, though its effectiveness for Cs-137 is limited.

4. Dietary Considerations: Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and certain minerals may support the body's natural detoxification processes. Foods high in fiber can also aid in the elimination of toxins through the digestive system.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular health check-ups and monitoring for any symptoms related to radiation exposure are essential. If any health issues arise, they should be promptly addressed with a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while the concern about internal exposure to Cs-137 is valid, the risk from casual contact is relatively low. If you have specific concerns about exposure, it is crucial to seek medical advice and undergo appropriate testing. Understanding the nature of radiation exposure and the body's response can help alleviate fears and guide you toward the best course of action for your health.

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