Release of radioiodines in a nuclear emergency

The possible release of volatile iodine-131 and -133 from a nuclear power plant emergency is a public health concern because, if ingested or inhaled, they tend to concentrate in the thyroid gland and could cause cancer. Inexpensive potassium iodide is considered the best available chemical substance to block the accumulation of radioiodines, and is recommended as a pre-packaged antidote to persons living in the proximity of a nuclear plant. The cost of purchasing and distributing potassious iodide in New York City is estimated at $13.3 million compared with $300 million to care for thyroid gland damage after a serious accident. 13 references