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Radioactivity and Its Possible Impact on Environment and Human Health: A Review

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Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of Environmental Science, Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh
  • 2Department of Environmental Science, Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh
  • 3Department of Environmental Science, Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh

Int. Res. J. Environment Sci., Volume 10, Issue (4), Pages 24-34, October,22 (2021)

Abstract

All environmental components consist of an extensive amount of radioactivity despite of various geographical location and geological differences. Radioactivity is found in rocks, soil, air, water, building materials, foods etc. Natural radioactivity (232Th, 40K) that radiates from natural resources is the main contributor to the exposure of biota. Along with that, anthropogenic radionuclides (137Cs, 134Cs, 90Sr) also have a significant role to external exposure impact and human health effect. This paper reviews the theoretical interpretation of radioactive pollution when it exceeds permissible unit. The radioactivity concentration of radionuclides above the threshold level is detrimental to human health as well as environmental components. Swift dividing cells of mammals are the most vulnerable and generally experience the maximum consequential damage from acute exposure (bone marrow, lymphatic tissue). Cellular damage of DNA may occur towards high levels of radiation exposure that results in cancer, genetic deformation of genes, cardiovascular disorder and in some cases death. Thus, the understanding of the contribution of radioactive material present in the surrounding plays a beneficiary role in radiation protection. As gamma radiation is emitted from primordial radionuclides and has a high penetration capacity, gamma-ray spectrometry system is used for the measurement of radioactivity.

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