Health physics
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The possibility of the occurrence of radiation accidents is increasing in the Asian region. However, training/education programs for medical professionals have not been established to improve the medical preparedness for radiation emergencies in the Asian region. As one of the activities for radiation emergency medical preparedness, Korea and Japan have started training programs for radio-nuclear emergencies in the region. In this article, the medical response systems for radiation emergency in the two countries and the training programs for the Asian region will be introduced.
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Radiation emergencies are rather new to humankind, as compared to other types of emergencies such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. Fortunately, they are rare, but because of that, planning for response to large-scale radiation emergencies is least understood. ⋯ The paper brings forward such general considerations as applicable to radiation mass casualty events, including (1) clear lines of communication; (2) scalability of approach; (3) whole-of-health approach; (4) knowledge based approach; and (5) multisectoral approach. Additionally, some key considerations of planning for mass casualty management systems are discussed, namely, health systems surge capacity and networking, risk and resources mapping, and others.
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A short guidebook for medical professionals has been published in Finland, summarizing essential knowledge of radiation accidents, including diagnosis and treatment of radiation injuries. The work was undertaken by the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK), which is a liaison institution of the World Health Organization Radiation Emergency Medical Preparedness and Assistance Network. The booklet is available in all hospital emergency departments and health care centers throughout the country.
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In order to effectively respond to and minimize the psychological impact following disasters, such as radio-nuclear ones, it is essential to understand the mechanisms involved in such conditions and how to prevent and treat the psychological impacts, including those related to acute traumatic stress and its consequences across life span. Radio-nuclear emergencies may cause psychological traumatic stress, with its potentially significant consequences in mental health, with both short and long-term effects, which extend beyond the individuals directly affected. ⋯ The present century has witnessed a steady increase in the number of publications concerning the mental health impact of traumatic events, showing the need of increasing the study of traumatic stress and its impact on mental health. A prompt, planned and effective response to manage disaster-induced acute traumatic stress may prevent the evolutionary reactions of traumatic stress into disorders or even chronic stress diseases that can appear after a nuclear or radiological emergency.