Safe from the fear of radiation!

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The nightmare of the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident in 2011 is still vivid. The recent decision to release contaminated water has increased anxiety about radiation. However, radiation is not just a problem in Fukushima. It exists in various forms in the food we eat and in our daily lives, and can threaten our health. In this article, we will learn in detail about the reality of radiation surrounding us and practical methods to live safely.

1. What is radiation? Understanding it easily and accurately

1.1. Becquerel and Curie, and the radiation around us

Radioactivity is a phenomenon in which unstable atoms emit radiation as they decay on their own. It was first discovered by French scientist Henri Becquerel, and Marie Curie made great contributions to this field through her research on radium. In our daily lives, we receive help from radiation through X-ray examinations, but we can also be exposed to unwanted radiation through food or daily necessities.

1.2. Lessons from Nuclear Accidents: Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima

The Three Mile Island accident in the United States, Chernobyl in the former Soviet Union, and Fukushima nuclear power plant accidents in Japan are incidents that have impressed upon the world the dangers of radiation. Although a long time has passed since the accidents, the effects of radioactive contamination are still ongoing, and we should not let down our guard against radiation safety through these past pains.

2. Radioactivity in Food, How to Consume It Safely?

2.1. Hidden Dangers in Groundwater and Mineral Water, Gifts from Nature

Groundwater and mineral water that flow out from limestone or granite areas may naturally contain radioactive substances such as radon and uranium. It is important to check the results of regular water quality tests when consuming water from these areas.

2.2. How to Protect Marine Products from Fukushima Contaminated Water Release?

The release of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant increases our anxiety about the marine products that end up on our tables. It is important to trust the government’s thorough radiation inspection system and results, and to choose safe seafood that is below the radiation inspection standard. In addition, it is also a method to carefully check the country of origin labeling and refrain from consuming seafood from controversial areas.

2.3. Iodine in seaweed and its effects on thyroid health

Seaweed such as kelp and tangle are rich in iodine, which is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. However, excessive intake can cause thyroid dysfunction, so it is important to consume an appropriate amount. In particular, patients suffering from thyroid disease should consult a specialist and adjust their intake.

3. Don’t ignore radiation in everyday life

3.1. How to deal wisely with radiation exposure in hospitals

X-ray imaging is an essential medical technology for diagnosing diseases, but excessive exposure should be avoided. It is important to refrain from unnecessary imaging and wear protective equipment when taking images. In particular, children in their growing years and pregnant women should be more careful about radiation exposure.

3.2. Are there any safety issues with airplane boarding and cosmic radiation?

Crew members flying at high altitudes or frequent long-distance travelers may be exposed to cosmic radiation. However, the exposure level during a typical flight is not harmful to the human body. However, pregnant women and children are advised to consult with experts before long-distance flights.

3.3. Hidden radioactivity in daily necessities, how can we use them safely?

Just like the radon mattress incident that became a problem in 2018, radioactive substances can be detected in bedding, tableware, and even clothing made of natural materials. Therefore, when purchasing daily necessities, it is important to check the safety certification mark of an authorized organization and to continuously check information about the products that were problematic.

4. How to avoid radiation in daily life and stay safe?
   It is impossible to completely avoid natural radiation from space. However, you can minimize radiation exposure in daily life and stay safe through the following practical methods.

4.1. Checking for a reliable certification mark

Certified certification such as the Korea Construction Living Environment Testing & Research Institute (KCL): Check the safety test results for building materials, daily necessities, etc. Eco-friendly agricultural product certification: Many agricultural products that have received eco-friendly certification have passed the standards for radioactive material testing, so you can eat them with confidence.

4.2. Using a personal radiation meter

It is also a good idea to use a radiation meter (Geiger counter) developed for home use to directly check and manage radiation levels inside and outside your home.

4.3. Comply with safety rules

Wear protective gear when taking an X-ray test: Sensitive areas such as the thyroid and genitals should be protected in particular.
Comply with safety rules for radiation workers: X-ray technicians and other radiation-related workers must wear protective clothing (bismuth material) and strictly follow safety rules.

4.4. Check imported food carefully

When purchasing imported food, carefully check the results of the radiation test in the country and whether it complies with domestic standards. It is recommended to refer to government announcements or related information.

4.5. Maintaining healthy eating habits

A balanced diet can help recover from damage to the body caused by radiation exposure and strengthen immunity. In particular, it is recommended to consume plenty of vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants.

Conclusion:

We can create a life safe from radiation with our attention and efforts.
Radioactivity is an invisible threat, but it is a problem that should never be overlooked. It is important for us to minimize our exposure to radiation in our daily lives based on accurate information and to choose safe food and daily necessities. Transparent information disclosure by the government and related organizations and the establishment of a thorough safety management system are also essential. We can create a life safe from radiation with the attention and efforts of all of us.