Health affects due to aboveground nuclear bomb explosions

In summary, there were 300 nuclear devices exploded aboveground in the US before a ban was put in place. This led to nuclear fallout and concerns about potential health effects. However, there is limited research on the overall impact on the population due to the government's reluctance to incriminate itself. Some health physicists have conducted studies, but it is unclear if these are based on original research or data from others. There is also a lack of comprehensive worldwide studies, with some speculation that other countries such as Russia, France, and the UK also conducted aboveground nuclear tests.
  • #1
DrClapeyron
From 1945 until the US put a ban on aboveground nuclear explosions in the US, there were some 300 nuclear devices exploded aboveground in the US. These explosions lead to an eventual nuclear fallout. Anyone have resources like books or internet sites that detail the medical research and overall research of tracking this fallout and any subsequent rise in diseases such as cancer?

I have been told that such a study does not exist because at the time, in the 1950's, the US government did not want to incriminate itself. So consideration for nuclear fallout was restricted to where scientists and engineers believed the eventual fall out would land. So have any dedicated medical scientists (MD's, stats, engineers) tried to keep track of what this event did to the greater population, like how many people died, got sick or changes in mood and other behaviour?

For bonus points, has there at all been world wide study? I think Russia, France and UK did as much damage as the US.
 
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  • #2
Do you mean a comprehensive study ov the overall effects, or small localized studies? health physicists have been studying these effects for quite some time now, and you can find numerous articles in their journals. Take a look http://hps.org/"
 
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  • #3
Sounds like an interesting site, I will have to investifate further. However, when you say for quite some time is that indication that these studies are based on original research or based on data from others' research?
 

What are the potential health effects of aboveground nuclear bomb explosions?

Aboveground nuclear bomb explosions can have a range of health effects, including immediate and long-term impacts. The immediate effects include burns, injuries from the blast and flying debris, and acute radiation sickness. Long-term effects can include increased risk of cancer, genetic mutations, and psychological trauma.

How far can the health effects of an aboveground nuclear bomb explosion reach?

The health effects of an aboveground nuclear bomb explosion can extend for miles beyond the blast site, depending on the size of the bomb and weather conditions. Fallout from the explosion can contaminate the surrounding area with radioactive particles, causing health concerns for those in the vicinity.

What measures can be taken to protect against the health impacts of aboveground nuclear bomb explosions?

In the event of an aboveground nuclear bomb explosion, seeking shelter in a sturdy building or underground structure can help protect against the immediate effects of the blast and radiation. It is also important to follow evacuation orders and avoid consuming contaminated food or water.

How do aboveground nuclear bomb explosions affect the environment?

Aboveground nuclear bomb explosions can have devastating effects on the environment. The blast can destroy buildings, infrastructure, and vegetation, and the resulting fallout can contaminate land, water, and air. The long-term effects on the ecosystem can be significant, with potential impacts on plant and animal life.

Has there ever been an aboveground nuclear bomb explosion and what were the health consequences?

Yes, there have been several aboveground nuclear bomb explosions, including the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. The immediate death toll from these explosions was high, and the long-term health consequences are still being felt today. The survivors, known as hibakusha, have experienced increased rates of cancer and other health issues due to exposure to radiation.

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