How can you detect a nuclear leak in your area?
According to LiveScience, exposure to nuclear radiation is one of the most serious threats to public health, given its ability to kill healthy cells in the body.
When the body is unable to repair the genetic mutations caused by this radiation, the likelihood of cells developing into cancer rises.
Radiation absorption through the thyroid gland is one of the most significant health threats, increasing the risk of thyroid cancer, especially among children, whose glands are smaller and more sensitive to radioactive iodine, according to the US National Cancer Institute.
While the risk from radioactive iodine persists for about two months after the incident, elements such as radioactive cesium can remain in the environment for decades – and even centuries.
How severe radiation sickness symptoms are depends on the amount of radiation absorbed. Exposure to high levels (2,000 millirem or more) can cause severe damage to vital organs, including the digestive system – possibly even leading to death.
Radiation's effects on the body:
Hair
Exposure to 200 millirem or more can lead to excessive and abnormal hair loss.
Brain
Nerve cells resist damage except in cases of exposure to extremely high levels (5,000 millirem or more).
Immune System
Low white blood cell count begins at 100 millirem, increasing the risk of infection.
Heart
Exposure between 1,000 and 5,000 millirem can cause blood vessel damage and heart failure.
Digestive System
Exposure to 200 millirem or more directly damages the intestines, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea.
Signs of a Possible Nuclear Leak Near You
If a radioactive leak occurs in your residential area, you may begin to notice some physical symptoms or environmental signs of exposure:
Persistent nausea or vomiting.
Chronic dizziness or unexplained fatigue.
Significant hair loss.
Unexplained bleeding or sudden bruising.
Generally weakened immunity and increased susceptibility to infection.
Skin changes, such as redness or minor burns.
Thyroid-related symptoms due to absorption of radioactive iodine.
Slow progression of chronic diseases, including cancer.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
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