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Suzuki S, Sato N, Miyazaki M. Maternal experiences of pregnant women affected by natural disasters: A modified grounded theory approach. Nurs Health Sci 2024; 26:e13135. [PMID: 38866383 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.13135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Pregnant women experience medical and psychological difficulties in their daily lives during disasters. Since the care provided to them in disaster situations is unclear, it is necessary to better understand their experiences. This study aims to identify the maternal experiences of pregnant women during natural disasters. This research employed a modified grounded theory approach. Twenty-three pregnant women, living in disaster-affected areas, were interviewed. The research methods were utilized and interpretive analysis was conducted, resulting in a diagram and storyline to describe the process. The characteristics of the maternal experiences fluctuated between "being unable to face pregnancy because of the disaster response" and "facing the fact of being pregnant." To maintain a fluctuation between their affected life and their pregnant life, it was necessary to control the weighting between "securing a safe and secure place," "encountering support based on pregnancy," and "signs from the fetus." Clarifying the maternal experiences of pregnant women living in disaster areas revealed a multilayered structure of categories and relationships. This study suggests that understanding the structure of fluctuations and control is critical for the nursing practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoko Suzuki
- Human Development, JICA Ogata Sadako Research Institute for Peace and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naho Sato
- Graduate School of Nursing, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Mettler FA. Radiation risks and information needs of pregnant and lactating women. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:1304-1314. [PMID: 37565260 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
This a historical review and current information regarding risks and effects of ionizing radiation in the context of human pregnancy and in particular the information needed for pregnant women to understand the type and magnitude of risks placing them in a realistic context. Much of our understanding comes from early animal studies but has been supported by studies of human exposure to medical radiation, radiation accidents and nuclear weapons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred A Mettler
- University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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Winters TA, Cassatt DR, Harrison-Peters JR, Hollingsworth BA, Rios CI, Satyamitra MM, Taliaferro LP, DiCarlo AL. Considerations of Medical Preparedness to Assess and Treat Various Populations During a Radiation Public Health Emergency. Radiat Res 2023; 199:301-318. [PMID: 36656560 PMCID: PMC10120400 DOI: 10.1667/rade-22-00148.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
During a radiological or nuclear public health emergency, given the heterogeneity of civilian populations, it is incumbent on medical response planners to understand and prepare for a potentially high degree of interindividual variability in the biological effects of radiation exposure. A part of advanced planning should include a comprehensive approach, in which the range of possible human responses in relation to the type of radiation expected from an incident has been thoughtfully considered. Although there are several reports addressing the radiation response for special populations (as compared to the standard 18-45-year-old male), the current review surveys published literature to assess the level of consideration given to differences in acute radiation responses in certain sub-groups. The authors attempt to bring clarity to the complex nature of human biology in the context of radiation to facilitate a path forward for radiation medical countermeasure (MCM) development that may be appropriate and effective in special populations. Consequently, the focus is on the medical (as opposed to logistical) aspects of preparedness and response. Populations identified for consideration include obstetric, pediatric, geriatric, males, females, individuals of different race/ethnicity, and people with comorbidities. Relevant animal models, biomarkers of radiation injury, and MCMs are highlighted, in addition to underscoring gaps in knowledge and the need for consistent and early inclusion of these populations in research. The inclusion of special populations in preclinical and clinical studies is essential to address shortcomings and is an important consideration for radiation public health emergency response planning. Pursuing this goal will benefit the population at large by considering those at greatest risk of health consequences after a radiological or nuclear mass casualty incident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Winters
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - David R Cassatt
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Jenna R Harrison-Peters
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Brynn A Hollingsworth
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Carmen I Rios
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Merriline M Satyamitra
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Lanyn P Taliaferro
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Andrea L DiCarlo
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
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Yasumura S, Ohira T, Ishikawa T, Shimura H, Sakai A, Maeda M, Miura I, Fujimori K, Ohto H, Kamiya K. Achievements and Current Status of the Fukushima Health Management Survey. J Epidemiol 2022; 32:S3-S10. [PMID: 36464298 PMCID: PMC9703928 DOI: 10.2188/jea.je20210390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The Fukushima Health Management Survey (FHMS) was established in response to the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident on March 11, 2011. The primary objectives of the study are to monitor residents' long-term health and promote their future well-being, and to determine the health effects of long-term low-dose radiation exposure. This special issue summarizes the results and current status of the FHMS and discusses the challenges and future directions of the FHMS. The FHMS, a cohort study of all people who were residents in Fukushima Prefecture at the time of the accident, consists of a Basic Survey, Thyroid Ultrasound Examination, Comprehensive Health Check, Mental Health and Lifestyle Survey, and Pregnancy and Birth Survey. The radiation exposure was estimated based on the behavioral records examined using the Basic Survey. Although the response rate was low in the Basic Survey, the representativeness of the radiation exposure data was confirmed using additional surveys. There appears to be no relationship between the radiation exposure and risk of thyroid cancer, although more thyroid cancer cases were detected than initially expected. The ongoing Comprehensive Health Check and Mental Health and Lifestyle Survey have provided evidence of worsening physical and mental health status. The Pregnancy and Birth Survey showed rates of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and congenital abnormalities similar to the national average. Considering the above evidence, the Fukushima Prefectural Government decided to end the Pregnancy and Birth Survey at the end of March 2021, as recommended by the Prefectural Oversight Committee. The framework of the FHMS has not changed, but the FHMS needs to adapt according to the survey results and the changing needs of the eligible residents and municipalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Yasumura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ohira
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Epidemiology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ishikawa
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Radiation Physics and Chemistry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hiroki Shimura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Akira Sakai
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Radiation Life Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Disaster Psychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Itaru Miura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Keiya Fujimori
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ohto
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Kamiya
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Yasuda S, Okazaki K, Nakano H, Ishii K, Kyozuka H, Murata T, Fujimori K, Goto A, Yasumura S, Ota M, Hata K, Suzuki K, Nakai A, Ohira T, Ohto H, Kamiya K. Effects of External Radiation Exposure on Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnant Women After the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident: the Fukushima Health Management Survey. J Epidemiol 2022; 32:S104-S114. [PMID: 36464294 PMCID: PMC9703922 DOI: 10.2188/jea.je20210252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the effects of maternal exposure to external radiation on perinatal outcomes among women who experienced the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster (FDND) using the Fukushima Health Management Survey (FHMS). METHODS Data from the Pregnancy and Birth Survey and Basic Survey in the FHMS were combined to analyze external maternal radiation exposure following the FDND, and the relationship between radiation dose and perinatal outcomes was analyzed using binomial logistic regression analysis. Missing dose data were supplemented using multiple imputation. RESULTS A total of 6,875 individuals responded to the survey. Congenital anomalies occurred in 2.9% of patients, low birth weight (LBW) in 7.6%, small for gestation age (SGA; <10th percentile) in 8.9%, and preterm birth in 4.1%. The median maternal external radiation dose was 0.5 mSv (maximum, 5.2 mSv). Doses were classified as follows: <1 mSv (reference), 1 to <2 mSv, and ≥2 mSv. For congenital anomalies, the crude odds ratio for 1 to <2 mSv was 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56-1.17) (no participants with congenital anomaly were exposed to ≥2 mSv). At 1 to <2 mSv and ≥2 mSv, the respective adjusted odds ratios were 0.91 (95% CI, 0.71-1.18) and 1.21 (95% CI, 0.53-2.79) for LBW, 1.14 (95% CI, 0.92-1.42) and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.30-2.37) for SGA, and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.65-1.29) and 1.05 (95% CI, 0.22-4.87) for preterm birth. CONCLUSION External radiation dose due to the FDND was not associated with congenital anomalies, LBW, SGA, or preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Yasuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan,Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kanako Okazaki
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Physical Therapy, Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hironori Nakano
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Epidemiology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kayoko Ishii
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hyo Kyozuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Murata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Keiya Fujimori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan,Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Aya Goto
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Center for Integrated Science and Humanities, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Seiji Yasumura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Misao Ota
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Midwifery and Maternal Nursing, Fukushima Medical University School of Nursing, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenichi Hata
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Fukushima Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kohta Suzuki
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Health and Psychosocial Medicine, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Akihito Nakai
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Nippon Medical School Tamanagayama Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ohira
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Department of Epidemiology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ohto
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Kamiya
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Lindberg JC, Archer D. Radiophobia: Useful concept, or ostracising term? PROGRESS IN NUCLEAR ENERGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pnucene.2022.104280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Suzuki S, Sato N, Miyazaki M. Experiences of pregnant people affected by natural disasters: a qualitative systematic review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2022; 20:2312-2318. [DOI: 10.11124/jbies-21-00258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Ishikuro M, Noda A, Murakami K, Onuma T, Matsuzaki F, Ueno F, Kikuya M, Metoki H, Tomita H, Obara T, Yaegashi N, Kuriyama S. Families' Health after the Great East Japan Earthquake: Findings from the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2022; 256:93-101. [PMID: 35197407 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.256.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and mental disorders in both adults and children are reported after disasters occur. The correlation between chronic diseases and mental disorders has also been reported. Moreover, disasters may affect perinatal outcomes. Thus, both adult and child health should be carefully monitored in disaster aftermath. A prospective cohort study of pregnant women and their families, the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project (TMM) Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study (TMM BirThree Cohort Study), has been conducted since 2013. A total of 73,529 family members participated in the TMM BirThree Cohort Study. Among siblings, the proportion of "small for gestational age" was the same in the pre- and post-disaster periods. Among parents and grandparents who answered the baseline questionnaire, 5.6% in the inland area and 19.8% in the coastal area had their houses totally/mostly destroyed by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Although a depression trend due to house damage was not observed in mothers, the proportion of psychological distress was high according to house damage (P for trend = 0.04). Among parents, there was an increase in overweight persons (P for trend = 0.004 in mothers and < 0.0001 in fathers) and in the number of smokers based on the severity of house damage (P for trend = 0.002 in mothers and < 0.0001 in fathers), whereas no such trend was observed in grandparents. Continuous monitoring and support for those who need are essential. Moreover, utilizing existing cohort studies to investigate health status when we face a new disaster is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mami Ishikuro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Aoii Noda
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University Hospital
| | - Keiko Murakami
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tomomi Onuma
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University
| | - Fumiko Matsuzaki
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Fumihiko Ueno
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Masahiro Kikuya
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Teikyo University School of Medicine
| | - Hirohito Metoki
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Faculty of Medicine, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University
| | - Hiroaki Tomita
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital.,Department of Disaster Psychiatry, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University
| | - Taku Obara
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University Hospital
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Department of Community Medical Supports, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tohoku University Hospital
| | - Shinichi Kuriyama
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University.,Division of Molecular Epidemiology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Division of Disaster Public Health, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University
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Social and Mental Health Impact of Nuclear Disaster in Survivors: A Narrative Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11080113. [PMID: 34436103 PMCID: PMC8389263 DOI: 10.3390/bs11080113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This narrative review synthesizes the literature on the psychological consequences of the Three Mile Island nuclear accident of 1979, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986, and the Fukushima nuclear disaster of 2011. A search was conducted on OVID for studies in English from 1966 to 2020. Fifty-nine studies were included. Living through a nuclear disaster is associated with higher levels of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Decontamination workers, those living in closest proximity to the reactor, and evacuees experience higher rates of mental health problems after a nuclear disaster. Those with greater psychological resilience and social supports experience lower rates of psychological distress. Individual-level interventions, such as mindfulness training, behavioral activation, and cognitive reappraisal training, have shown modest benefits on improving psychological wellbeing. At the population level, many of the measures in place aimed at reducing exposure to radiation actually increase individuals’ anxiety. Technology-based supports have been studied in other types of natural disasters and it may be beneficial to look at mobile-based interventions for future nuclear disasters.
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Lindberg JCH. 'J'accuse.!': the continuous failure to address radiophobia and placing radiation in perspective. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2021; 41:459-469. [PMID: 34075897 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/abf9e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As far as carcinogens are concerned, radiation is one of the best studied, having been researched for more than 100 years. Yet, radiation remains feared in many contexts as a result of its invisibility, its relationship with cancers and congenital disorders, aided by a variety of heuristics and reinforced by negative imagery. The strong socio-psychological response relating to nuclear energy has made radiation a classical case in the risk literature. This is reflected clearly following the nuclear accidents that have taken place, where the socio-psychological impacts of the clear dissonance between real and perceived health effects due to radiation exposure have caused considerable health detriment, outweighing the actual radiological impacts. Despite considerable efforts to normalise humankind's relationship with radiation, there has been little shift away from the perceived uniqueness of the health risks of radiation. One consistent issue is the failure to place radiation within its proper perspective and context, which has ensured that radiophobia has persisted. The radiation protection community must get better at placing its research within the appropriate perspective and context, something that is far too rarely the case in discussions on radiation matters outside of the scientific community. Each member of the radiation protection community has an ethical, professional and moral obligation to set the record straight, to challenge the misconceptions and factual errors that surround radiation, as well as putting it into the proper perspective and context. Failing to do so, the well-established harms of radiophobia will remain, and the many benefits of nuclear technology risk being withheld.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C H Lindberg
- Department of Geography, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Mental health consequences for survivors of the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster: a systematic review. Part 1: psychological consequences. CNS Spectr 2021; 26:14-29. [PMID: 32192553 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852920000164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
To integrate scholastic literature regarding the prevalence and characteristics of the psychological consequences faced by survivors of the 2011 Fukushima earthquake/tsunami/nuclear disaster, we conducted a systematic review of survivor studies concerning the Fukushima disaster. In August 2019, four literature databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and ICHUSHI) were used in the literature search. Peer-reviewed manuscripts reporting psychological consequences, either in English or Japanese, were selected. A total of 79 studies were selected for the review. Twenty-four studies (30.4%) were conducted as part of the Fukushima Health Management Survey-large-scale cohort study recruiting the residents of the entire Fukushima prefecture. Study outcomes were primarily nonspecific psychological distress, depressive symptoms, post-traumatic stress symptoms, and anxiety symptoms. The rates of high-risk individuals determined by the studies varied significantly owing to methodological differences. Nevertheless, these rates were mostly high (nonspecific psychological distress, 8.3%-65.1%; depressive symptoms, 12%-52.0%; and post-traumatic stress symptoms, 10.5%-62.6%). Many studies focused on vulnerable populations such as children, mothers of young children, evacuees, and nuclear power plant workers. However, few studies reported on the intervention methods used or their effect on the survivors. As a conclusion, high rates of individuals with psychological conditions, as well as a wide range of mental conditions, were reported among the Fukushima nuclear disaster survivors in the first 8 years after the disaster. These findings demonstrate the substantial impact of this compound disaster, especially in the context of a nuclear catastrophe.
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12
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Hirata Y, Shimizu H, Kumamaru H, Takamoto S, Motomura N, Miyata H, Okita Y. Congenital Heart Disease After the Fukushima Nuclear Accident: The Japan Cardiovascular Surgery Database Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e014787. [PMID: 32613886 PMCID: PMC7670522 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.014787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background In March 2011, the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant disaster inflicted radiation damage across the Tohoku region of Northern Japan. The consequent harm to pregnant mothers and newborns was a matter of concern. We performed a registry‐based analysis of the incidence of congenital heart disease during 2010 to 2013 using the Japan Cardiovascular Surgery Database. Methods and Results We selected patients who had complex congenital heart disease and who were born between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2013 undergoing surgery, and assessed the trend in the number of first‐time surgeries performed for patients aged 2 years and younger by birth year over time. The numbers of first‐time surgeries for birth years 2010 to 2013 were 2978, 2924, 3077, and 2940, and no increasing trend was detected. Additionally, no increasing yearly trend was detected when the number of cases was divided by the total number of births in Japan in each birth month. The mortality of first‐time surgeries performed for complex diseases, which often involves multiple subsequent surgeries, decreased from 4.7% in 2010 to 2.2% in 2013. Conclusions Our analyses showed no increase in the number of patients with congenital heart disease during 2010 to 2013. The yearly increase in the total number of surgeries following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in a previous report can be explained by the decline in the mortality of first‐time surgeries for complex cases. Such use of only the increase in the total yearly number of surgeries to claim the effects of a nuclear disaster on the incidence of congenital heart disease is a far too simplistic and dangerous proposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutaka Hirata
- The Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery Tokyo Japan.,Department of Cardiac Surgery The University of Tokyo Hospital Tokyo Japan
| | - Hideyuki Shimizu
- The Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery Tokyo Japan.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery Keio University Hospital Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiraku Kumamaru
- Department of Healthcare Quality Assessment University of Tokyo Japan
| | | | - Noboru Motomura
- The Japan Cardiovascular Surgery Database Organization Tokyo Japan.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery Toho University Sakura Medical Center Sakura Japan
| | - Hiroaki Miyata
- Department of Healthcare Quality Assessment University of Tokyo Japan
| | - Yutaka Okita
- The Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery Tokyo Japan.,Takatsuki General Hospital Cardio-Aortic Center Osaka Japan
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13
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14
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Itagaki S, Wada T, Yokokura S, Ise Y, Sato A, Matsumoto T, Mashiko H, Niwa SI, Yabe H. Study of developmental disorders among newborns in Fukushima City after the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear power plant accident; an adjunct study of the Fukushima Regional Center of the Japan Environmental and Children's Study (JECS). Fukushima J Med Sci 2019; 65:1-5. [PMID: 30996215 DOI: 10.5387/fms.2018-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The present adjunct study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) aimed to determine the occurrence of developmental disorders in Fukushima Prefecture, which was exposed to low-dose radiation. At two medical institutions in Fukushima City, we enrolled 339 pregnant women from September 2013 through May 31, 2014, who delivered 335 neonates (174 male, including one set of twins) between November 4, 2013 and November 11, 2014. The parents of four neonates declined to participate in the present study and one neonate died. Therefore, 334 families agreed to participate in additional surveys until March 2017. Child Behavior Checklists (CBCL) were mailed to all 334 families during the month of their infant's second birthday and we received 236 responses (response rate, 70%). All responses were below the 69th percentile in the CBCL, and no responses indicated significant problem behaviors. Boys tended to have higher values for items associated with developmental problems, but symptoms of autism were not evident. The mental health of the mothers indicated in the previous study might not have influenced the children. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not obvious by the age of three years and thus it might become apparent as the children grow older.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntaro Itagaki
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Tomohiro Wada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Shunya Yokokura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Yoko Ise
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Akiko Sato
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Takatomo Matsumoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Hirobumi Mashiko
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Shin-Ichi Niwa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
| | - Hirooki Yabe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University
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Depressive Symptoms and Associated Factors in Female Students in Fukushima Four Years after the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Disaster. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15112411. [PMID: 30380803 PMCID: PMC6266081 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Young women in their late teens and early 20s are at the highest risk for depression onset. The present study aimed to assess depressive symptoms among female college students in Fukushima. More specifically, it aimed to clarify factors predicting possible symptom profiles, with an emphasis on determining how nuclear radiation risks affect the reporting of depression symptoms. A cross-sectional survey was conducted of 310 female students at a college in the Fukushima prefecture, Japan, in December 2015, and 288 participants submitted valid questionnaires. In total, 222 (77.1%) participants lived in Fukushima at the time of the Great East Japan Earthquake. The measures included the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index, the Fukushima Future Parents Attitude Measure, and risk perception of radiation health effects. A total of 46.5% of participants reported depressive symptoms. Path analysis revealed that higher radiation risk perceptions and reduced efficacy with reproduction related to a decline in self-esteem and self-efficacy, which was subsequently associated with increased depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of radiation education among children and young adults, both after a nuclear accident and during disaster preparation, particularly in the context of reproductive and mental health.
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Leppold C, Nomura S, Sawano T, Ozaki A, Tsubokura M, Hill S, Kanazawa Y, Anbe H. Birth Outcomes after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster: A Long-Term Retrospective Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14050542. [PMID: 28534840 PMCID: PMC5451992 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14050542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Changes in population birth outcomes, including increases in low birthweight or preterm births, have been documented after natural and manmade disasters. However, information is limited following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster. In this study, we assessed whether there were long-term changes in birth outcomes post-disaster, compared to pre-disaster data, and whether residential area and food purchasing patterns, as proxy measurements of evacuation and radiation-related anxiety, were associated with post-disaster birth outcomes. Maternal and perinatal data were retrospectively collected for all live singleton births at a public hospital, located 23 km from the power plant, from 2008 to 2015. Proportions of low birthweight (<2500 g at birth) and preterm births (<37 weeks gestation at birth) were compared pre- and post-disaster, and regression models were conducted to assess for associations between these outcomes and evacuation and food avoidance. A total of 1101 live singleton births were included. There were no increased proportions of low birthweight or preterm births in any year after the disaster (merged post-disaster risk ratio of low birthweight birth: 0.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64–1.51; and preterm birth: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.38–1.21). No significant associations between birth outcomes and residential area or food purchasing patterns were identified, after adjustment for covariates. In conclusion, no changes in birth outcomes were found in this institution-based investigation after the Fukushima disaster. Further research is needed on the pathways that may exacerbate or reduce disaster effects on maternal and perinatal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Leppold
- Global Public Health Unit, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9LD, UK.
- Department of Research, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Shuhei Nomura
- Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.
| | - Toyoaki Sawano
- Department of Surgery, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Akihiko Ozaki
- Department of Surgery, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Protection, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Sarah Hill
- Department of Research, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Yukio Kanazawa
- Department of Radiation Protection, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Anbe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Minamisoma Municipal General Hospital, Minamisoma, Fukushima 975-0033, Japan.
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17
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Ohto H, Yasumura S, Maeda M, Kainuma H, Fujimori K, Nollet KE. From Devastation to Recovery and Revival in the Aftermath of Fukushima’s Nuclear Power Plants Accident. Asia Pac J Public Health 2017; 29:10S-17S. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539516675700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Japan’s earthquake, tsunami, and subsequent Fukushima nuclear power plant accident in March 2011 forced the evacuation of 185 000 residents. Psychological and social impacts exacerbated by long-term evacuation and widespread rumors have influenced residents’ physical and mental health, despite the fact that no direct fatalities occurred from radiation exposure. However, during the 5 years following the accident, steady recovery in industrial and economic activity has lessened previously widespread, deeply rooted stigma and self-stigma among a significant number of affected victims. More than 21 000 of 62 800 people who evacuated from Fukushima are gradually returning, and concurrently, Fukushima’s economic and social recovery are progressing, as can be seen from remarkable increases in residential construction, recovering agricultural production, job growth, and industrial output. Although post-disaster interventions such as seminars and dialogues with residents are credited with building resilience, a significant proportion of people in the area have depressive tendencies and loss of purpose.
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