Long-Range Consequences of Emergency Underground Nuclear Explosions in Yakutia: Incidence of Malignant Neoplasms

Abstract

The paper evaluates the possibility of interrelation of emergency underground nuclear explosions with an increased incidence of cancer among the population of areas bordering the area of emergency underground nuclear explosions, for example, in Suntarsky and Nyurbinsky districts, in which the incidence of malignant neoplasms, mortality from malignant neoplasms is higher than the average in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). For this purpose, the radiation situation of the sites of underground nuclear explosions “Kraton-3” and “Kristall” was investigated: the radionuclide composition of soil and vegetation was studied by semiconductor gamma-ray spectrometry and a water sample by liquid scintillation spectrometry; dosimetric measurements were carried out: the power of exposure doses. Based on the results of water analysis, it is possible to determine the possibility of migration of tritium from the cavities of emergency underground nuclear explosions. The results of the study of vegetation and soil showed the presence of artificial radionuclides 137Cs, 241Am and traces of 60Co. High values of the specific activity of radiocesium are observed in several samples taken near the area “Kraton-3”. Also in this area, the results of dosimetric measurements showed a slight decrease in the gamma background level, but which still remains elevated and exceeds the safe level by 2.5 times. It is possible that the increased incidence rate in the districts of the republic bordering the area of emergency underground nuclear explosions can be considered as their long-term consequences due to additional dose loads, for example, from caesium during the entire time after the explosions, since the half-life of caesium is approximately 30 years. The results of this study can be considered as a basis for the development of recommendations, possible regulations that can be applied in the implementation of compliance with radiation safety standards during future similar tests and during mining, during which there may be emissions of natural radionuclides to the earth's surface.