A Defunct Nuclear Site Had a Meltdown in 1959. A New Study Shows It’s Still Causing Health Problems

[Marlin]

A Defunct Nuclear Site Had a Meltdown in 1959. A New Study Shows It's Still Causing Health Problems

https://gizmodo.com/a-defunct-nuclear-site-had-a-meltdown-in-1959-a-new-study-shows-its-still-causing-health-problems-2000802866

[Core Content]

Researchers surveyed 475 residents living near the Santa Susana Field Laboratory to assess the prevalence of chronic illnesses. The study indicates that individuals living within 5 miles of the site reported higher rates of autoimmune, endocrine, and metabolic disorders compared to those residing at greater distances from the facility.

These findings highlight the long-term public health challenges associated with legacy nuclear and chemical contamination sites. As climate change increases the frequency of wildfires and droughts, the potential for the migration of radioactive and chemical waste from decommissioned facilities remains a concern for both environmental regulators and the nuclear industry.

Researchers found elevated reports of autoimmune and endocrine disorders among people living within 5 miles (8 kilometers) of the Santa Susana field Laboratory.

The Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL) in Ventura County, California, is one of the most contaminated sites in the state. During its nearly 60 years of operation, the nuclear reactor and rocket testing site experienced several accidents—including a partial nuclear meltdown in 1959—that polluted the soil and groundwater with radioactive and chemical waste.

Read the full article at Gizmodo:
https://gizmodo.com/a-defunct-nuclear-site-had-a-meltdown-in-1959-a-new-study-shows-its-still-causing-health-problems-2000802866