Radiation impact of nuclear weapons tests at the Semipalatinks test site on the population of the Altai region

The population of the Altai region was exposed repeatedly to radiation during atmospheric tests of nuclear weapons from 1949 to 1962 and during cratering explosions in 1965. It has now been established that 22 nuclear explosions resulted in transport of radionuclides towards the Altai region. The nuclear explosions of 29 August 1949 alone produced an effective dose exceeding 250 mSv in 44 settlements. In the case of the nuclear explosion of 7 August 1962, the thyroid dose to persons living in a number of settlements was more than a few gray. The impact of the tests on the population of the Altai region has been under study since 1990 (as of 1992 under the ''Semipalatinsk test site/Altai'' State research programme). This study covers: reconstruction of doses from the tests, risk assessment, epidemiological studies, health and demosgraphic studies, and ecological research (radioactive and chemical contamination). The goals of the research are development and realization of the programme of additional measures for health protection and compensation, and environmental and social protection. The nuclear test of 1949 produced the greatest radiation impact. The total collective dose from this test to the population of the region is estimated at approximately 32,000 man·Sv, with about 250,000 individuals receiving a dose of above 5 cSv. The radiation impact from this test on the cohort and population levels was estimated using up-to-date scientific theories about stochastic health effects of ionizing radiation. The goal of the research is to obtain data on the consequences of the tests in order to plan social protection measures as well as future research. An analysis of the medico-ecological situation in the affected and control regions and an epidemiological study are being carried out. Some results of the study are presented in the paper. A concept of social protection for the population affected by the tests has been prepared and serves as the basis for taking decisions on practical measures. Its principal points are described. The problems currently faced in evaluating the consequences of the tests are considered. (author). 14 refs, 5 figs, 5 tabs