5007.0: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - 9:20 AM

Abstract #11015

Impact and risk of iodine-131 radiation fallout of the 50's and 60's in Indian country

Felicia S. Hodge, DrPH, Center for American Indian Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, 1918 University Avenue, Suite 3-A, Berkeley, CA 94704, 510-843-8661, BAGCinCAL@aol.com and Robert Holden, NCIA.

Radioactive Iodine-131 was released in the 1950's and 1960's Nevada atmospheric nuclear bomb sites. As a result, many tribes were exposed to the contamination. This paper examines this event and provides information on the potential health effects of the I-131 radiation release. American Indian populations identified as "higher-exposed" versus "lower-exposed" will be presented. The route of the contamination and the impact of this event, in terms of health conditions and contamination of Indian lands, is examined. Policy implications are discussed and future steps in public disclosure are examined.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Describe the effects of exposure to iodine-131. 2. Discuss policy implications of iodine-131 exposure to Indian reservations

Keywords: American Indians, Radiation

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of California, San Francisco Center for American Indian Research and Education
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: University of California, San Francisco Employment as Principal Investigator of research project

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA