The unfolding events relating to Japan's damaged nuclear reactors is raising the concern in the U.S. of a worst-case scenario of a meltdown with a consequent cloud of radioactive particles following the jet stream over to the U.S. The prevailing jet stream winds would impact Los Angeles to Alaska, and would include Hawaii. Radioactive pollution would reach the U.S. within 36 hours. It would then travel the typical jet stream across the U.S that you see on your daily weather programs. While we all hope this does not happen, and various experts may debate the severity of public health issues involved if it should, it never hurts to have a better understanding of the subject. What would you do if such a cloud was headed your way?
Japanese health authorities are passing out iodine tablets to those in the vicinity of these reactors - as it is common knowledge that the thyroid gland is a weak spot when it comes to radiation exposure. By flooding the body with iodine, the iodine is taken up by the thyroid which then blocks radiation uptake into the thyroid. This reduces the risk for future thyroid cancer (which is already an epidemic cancer in the U.S. in part likely due to excess CT scans).
Such iodine saturation should occur 24 hours prior to exposure and be maintained during the duration of excess exposure. This solution is not without risks, especially when potassium iodide is used. That is because excess iodine can clog thyroid function, inducing either hypo or hyper thyroid. However, that risk is trivial compared to acute radiation exposure - thus iodine makes sense. I like water-soluble iodine that in my experience is much less problematic when higher doses are used. Liquids can be applied directly over the neck region or taken orally, and reapplied as desired based on concerns.
Protecting the thyroid with iodine seems to be about all that public health officials are willing to recommend to the public. However, there are other important steps every person should consider. Radiation interaction within your body generates massive amounts of damaging free radicals, in turn potentially inducing DNA damage that may lead to future cancer - often manifesting a decade or two later. This means it is a good idea to maximize your overall antioxidant defenses. Ideally, this system would be bolstered in advance to provide maximum defense. Unfortunately, the antioxidant defense systems of a majority of Americans are in shoddy condition.
Comment: For more information about mercury and thimerosal being 'potentially damaging to the health of children' read the following:
Pediatric Love Affair with Mercury Continues
FDA Reluctantly Admits Mercury Fillings Have Neurotoxic Effects on Children
Dangerous Mercury Contamination of Human Body Increasing, Study Finds The following is helpful information about how to detox mercury from your body:
Detoxification: Heavy Metals, Mercury and how to get rid of them
Mercury: How to Get this Lethal Poison Out of Your Body
Health Videos: Mercury Amalgams, Toxic Chemicals and Foods, Activated Charcoal