Nukes and cancer: proximity associated with deaths

In the latest study from Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health, proximity to nuclear power reactors was associated with elevated mortality from breast, colon, and lung cancers. Examining data from 2000 to 2020, almost 40,000 female deaths and 40,000 male deaths were estimated to be attributable to this proximity. Lung cancer accounted for most of these deaths, followed by breast and colon cancer in females and colon cancer in males. The greater the distance, the less the risk. Beyond 50 km risks become negligible.

According to the authors, “The magnitude and consistency of the findings highlight the importance of updated risk assessments, sustained surveillance, and strengthened public health planning for communities living near nuclear facilities.” Full study is paywalled.