Thursday, April 21, 2011

Is Cancer from Fukushima Inevitable or Unpreventable?

Today's dialogue between Arnie Gunderson and epidemiologist Dr. Steven Wing was very disappointing. Dr. Wing essentially said there would be increased rates of cancer in the U.S. from the Fukushima radiation but that the public's energies would be better spent preventing more plants from being built rather than trying to protect against Fukushima radiation exposure.
http://www.fairewinds.com/

I fundamentally disagree with Dr. Wing's position and even Arnie seemed rather nonplussed.

We do not have to accept inevitability because there are steps we can take to reduce our risks.

First, the research I examined asserted that the effects of radionuclides are moderated by the presence or absence of other chemicals. So, for example, although nuclear plant workers have higher rates of cancer, those who smoke while working at a nuclear plant are really likely to die from cancer.

So, you can reduce your personal risk level by removing known toxins from your daily habits and eating practices. Now is a great time to stop smoking and to reduce your processed food intake. Switch to organic now if possible. Pesticides and radionuclides are not a good combination.

Second, sugar may feed tumor growth. I've seen new research on the role of corn syrup in particular  We could all increase our health and reduce our risk for cancer by reducing our intake of processed sugar. That sucks I know.

Third, radiation contamination bio-accumulates in milk. The lesson is obvious, even if hard to implement for those of us who love ice cream.

Fourth, I've read that reverse-osmosis systems help filter water and reduce impurities, including certain forms of radiation. I really don't know if this is true or not but reverse-osmosis does reduce impurities that might increase your overall susceptibility. Our water is contaminated with perchlorate and other chemicals so filtering it can only help.

Fifth, there are many radiation networks out there including the EPA's radnet. It seems like a good idea to check air levels if you plan on spending alot of time outside. Here is a link for an article that discusses these sites
http://blogs.forbes.com/jeffmcmahon/

Sixth, avoid being caught in the rain since rain washes out contamination.

Seventh, cover your home garden when it rains to protect from contaminated rainwater.

Eighth, consider consuming more food products that help boost your immune system.

I believe that we can take steps to reduce our risks and I believe we have a moral responsibility to do this for our children who are typically more biologically vulnerable than we are as adults.

If you read this, please add in the comment sections your ideas and links you have found to be helpful for offering advice that makes sense and that does not require individuals to purchase high-priced products.

here are a couple links to start the conversation

A general discussion of how to avoid radioactive contamination
http://vesica.org/main/holistic-health/articles/1162-radiation-update-april-2011#2

An article about herbs and foods that may combat the effects of radiation contamination
http://www.washingtonsblog.com/2011/03/how-to-protect-yourself-from-radiation.html

An article on how to protect your garden from rainwater
http://crisismaven.wordpress.com/2011/04/06/how-to-protect-your-garden-patch-or-field-against-radioactive-fall-out/

Do not panic, but be prudent.

Do not fear, but be watchful.

Do not despair for the lesson of our vulnerability is to better appreciate and improve our lives and our communities...

2 comments:

  1. Cancer diagnoses from the radiation from Japan is inevitable. Some may follow your suggestions above but many will not. Radiation exposure in our lives is increasing.

    http://ovarian.peoplebeatingcancer.org/blog-entry/radiation-japan-chernobyl-nuclear-reactors-cancer-therapy-whatever-source

    David Emerson
    http://peoplebeatingcancer.org/

    ReplyDelete
  2. Excellent link! Thank you David

    http://ovarian.peoplebeatingcancer.org/blog-entry/radiation-japan-chernobyl-nuclear-reactors-cancer-therapy-whatever-source

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