World Staring at a Nuclear Disaster: World Health Organisation

Recent warnings from the World Health Organization (WHO) have triggered global alarm over an “alarming pattern” of airstrikes near Iran’s nuclear facilities. According to regional director Hanan Balkhy, at least eight strikes have occurred dangerously close, one as near as 75 metres. Even though no direct hit has been reported, experts warn that even near-misses pose serious health risks, including potential radiological exposure and long-term environmental damage. According to studies, "non-targeted" effects – also called Radiation-Induced Bystander Effect, or RIBE- mean that cells adjacent to those hit by alpha or beta particles can still exhibit genomic instability. This suggests that "low-dose" exposure from a near-miss leak might be more

damaging than previously thought.Also read: COVID-19-Like Symptoms Surge in Delhi-NCR: 56% Households Affected

Why are nuclear facilities sensitive?

Nuclear facilities store radioactive materials such as uranium and nuclear waste, which require strict containment. These sites are designed for safety under normal conditions, not for military attacks. According to experts, even indirect damage from explosions can disrupt cooling systems, power supply, and containment units, increasing the risk of radioactive leaks. A breach could release harmful particles into the air, water, and soil, exposing large populations to invisible yet dangerous radiation.

Understanding CBRN health risks

The WHO has highlighted the threat of a CBRN event - short for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear hazards. In this case, the primary concern is radiation exposure, which is particularly dangerous because it is invisible and odourless, capable of spreading across borders via wind and water, and difficult to contain once released. Even well-prepared emergency systems may struggle to fully control the consequences of such an incident. Emerging research in Frontiers in Oncology points to the RIBE, a phenomenon where cells not directly exposed to radiation still suffer damage. This suggests that even low-dose radiation from nearby blasts could trigger genomic instability, increasing long-term cancer risk. In simple terms, you don’t need direct exposure to be affected; proximity alone can be harmful.

What are the short and long-term health risks?

If a nuclear site is struck or compromised, the immediate effects may include:

• Explosions and fires
• Release of radioactive particles
• Acute radiation sickness, which includes nausea, vomiting, and severe burns

Long-term health consequences are even more severe:

• Increased risk of deadly cancers such as thyroid cancer, leukemia, and lung cancer
• Genetic mutations affecting future generations

Children are particularly vulnerable, as experts say many studies have shown that their thyroid glands absorb radioactive iodine at much higher rates, making them up to 10 times more susceptible to thyroid cancer. Past disasters like the Chornobyl disaster and Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster highlight how devastating and long-lasting such events can be.

Global implications and the need for prevention

Radiation does not respect borders. Depending on weather patterns, radioactive material could spread beyond Iran, affecting neighbouring regions and potentially triggering a global health emergency. While emergency preparedness can reduce damage, experts stress that prevention is the only effective solution. Protecting nuclear facilities during conflicts is not just a regional concern - it is a global responsibility.