Health Risks Rise Amid Radiation Leaks

Health concerns have risen as more radiation leaks from a nuclear power plant in Japan. The plant was damaged by last week’s tsunami. Explosions and a fire have occurred. Officials advised people within 20 miles to stay indoors. Plant workers are trying to prevent further damage or a meltdown of the reactors’ fuel source. This could release much more radiation. One risk from escaping radiation is thyroid cancer. Potassium iodide pills can prevent the thyroid from absorbing radioactive iodine. The government has sent pills to evacuation centers as a precaution. Radioactive cesium is another concern. The whole body can absorb it. It also stays in the body and the environment longer than radioactive iodine. But cesium also is relatively heavy. If larger amounts escape, officials hope it will fall near the reactor or else be carried out over the ocean.