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04 February 2012

Answer to Question #1339 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Alpha Emitters — Plutonium

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I need to find information on health effects on humans due to plutonium radiation. I am especially interested in the problem of plutonium inhalation and the associated risk of developing lung cancer and other diseases. Also, what are the LD50 and the Rdf, . . . and how can this risk can be minimized?

There are many publications—articles and monographs and information sheets—at all different levels that discuss plutonium and its hazards. A good place to start would be the Health Physics Society position paper "What about Deadly Plutonium." You might also wish to consult the following papers in the journal Health Physics: Vol 73, October 1997, p. 66, by G. L. Voelz and coworkers; Vol 75, September 1998, p. 236 by R. L. Kathren and B. Gold; Vol 76, May 1999, p. 477, and articles in the July 2000 special issue dealing with the more highly exposed Russian population.

Ronald L. Kathren, CHP

Answer posted on 19 November 2001. The information and material posted on this website is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Website. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.