| The Chernobyl accident was in fact a tragic catastrophe with health impacts that are still far from being fully evaluated. In case of the thyroid it has led most likely (but not yet scientifically proven) to a significant increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer in children. The first tumors occurred 2-3 years after the accident and the majority of cases appeared in those children, who were 1 year or under, or even in utero at the time of radioiodine contamination. In this age group the thyroid is especially sensitive to radiation. The TSH level is significantly higher than in adults. In addition at this very young age, thyroid follicular cells undergo developmental growth, rendering them more sensitive to mutagenic action of radiation (60,76). Finally, carcinogenic effects of short-lived radioiodines, certainly in combination with iodine deficiency, might be other important factors. The health impacts of the Chernobyl accident should be carefully followed in coming years. |
