EFFECT OF ACUTE FALLOUT RADIATION ON A MARSHALL ISLAND POPULATION
The acute and residual effects of a localized fallout exposure on the people of Rongelap lsland are summarized for the 8-yr period subsequent to their accidental exposure on March 1, 1954. The accident occurred following the detonation of a high-yield nuclear device at the Pacific Proving Grounds. Twenty- three Japanese fishermen aboard the Lucky Dragon were also exposed. The 64 inhabitants of the island, located 105 nautical miles from the detonation, received an estimated dose of 175 r of whole-body gamma radiation, contamination of the skin sufficient to result in BETA burns, and slight internal absorption of radioactive materials through inhalation and ingestion. The fallout resembled a light snowfall. The exposed people were evacuated about 2 days after the accident and received extensive examinations for the following 3 mo. Annual medical surveys have revealed only minimal residual effects in the exposed population. (C.H.)
- Research Organization:
- Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, N.Y.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AT(30-2)-GEN-16
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-033757
- OSTI ID:
- 4659481
- Report Number(s):
- BNL-7145; CONF-150-1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
MEDICAL SURVEY OF RONGELAP PEOPLE EIGHT YEARS AFTER EXPOSURE TO FALLOUT
Micronesia: America's strategic trust