The 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident, the post-9/11 fears of terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities, and the March 2011 disaster at the Japanese Fukushima nuclear plant are all situations that have focused attention on protecting the thyroid gland from radiation. In particular, the use of the supplement potassium iodide - also known by its chemical symbol KI -- is of interest, because it can help prevent radiation-induced thyroid cancer. The following are key resources regarding radiation and the thyroid.
10 Things You Should Know About Protecting Your Thyroid From Radiation
Here are ten important things that Americans need to know about protecting the thyroid gland from radiation, and the use of potassium iodide as a radiation blocker.
Japanese Meltdown: Different Perspectives Cause Confusion
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With news that rising radiation levels in soil and seawater around the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant are evidence of a meltdown, concerns are rising about the radioactive dangers from the troubled plant. And in the U.S., the concerns are also focused on whether the radiation may be harmful to the health of people outside Japan. And if so, how do those of us not in Japan protect ourselves against radiation? Do we even need to?
Protecting Yourself and Your Thyroid From Radiation
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Radiation Levels in Tokyo's Tap Water Unsafe for Infants and Unborn Babies
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Poll: How Are You Responding to the Japanese Radiation Emergency?
People are responding in many different ways to the Japanese reactor leaks and the resulting radiation emergency in Japan, and have differing views on how to protect their thyroid health. In this poll, readers identify the ways they are reacting to the radiation risks, and share their thoughts about the concerns over radiation from the Japanese Fukushima nuclear plant.Should Americans Take Iodine to Protect Against Japanese Radiation?
Tthe March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan -- and the subsequent damage to the reactors -- created a great deal of speculation as to the need for Americans to use potassium iodide to protect the thyroid from radiation. One of the nation's leading endocrinologists, Theodore Friedman, MD, PhD, offered his advice on the issue.
Where to Find Reliable Information About Potassium Iodide and the Thyroid
Supplement manufacturers and distributors -- as well as some radiation and medical "experts" -- seem to have an interest in stoking the fear and frenzy over the Japanese nuclear disaster. Where can you go for legitimate, sound information on the use of potassium iodide for thyroid protection during a radiation emergency? Here are some reliable sources.
