Risks associated with evacuation and disaster-related death after a radiation disaster: summary of research results from Hamadori region, Fukushima

Abstract

Radiation disasters can lead to a myriad of direct and indirect health effects. The term 'disaster-related deaths' is commonly used in Japan; however, comprehensive studies in regions severely impacted by nuclear accidents are scarce. Our research primarily focuses on Minamisoma City, situated north of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP), and aimed to study the risks associated with evacuation and disaster-related death. We introduce the following studies: (1) risks from evacuation in elderly care facilities after the FDNPP accident; (2) detailed case reports on hospital evacuation and (3) detailed reports on disaster-related deaths. A critical lesson from the FDNPP accident is the significant risk to life posed by evacuation actions taken to avoid radiation exposure. Despite evacuation being an effective measure to reduce exposure, our preparation and knowledge are insufficient for safe execution. This paper ensures that the lessons from Fukushima are leveraged in future radiation protection measures.