C. Growth and Development Following Prenatal and Childhood Exposure to Atomic Radiation

Review of Thirty Years Study of Hiroshima and Nacasaki Atomic Bomb Survivors II. BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS

Abstract

Studies of growth and development of Hiroshima and Nagasaki children have shown significant long-range effects associated with exposure to the atomic bombs. Radiation to the fetus during early pregnancy, even at relatively low doses, may result in reduced growth, smaller head size, and mental retardation. Harmful effects of radiation later in pregnancy and in early childhood have not been as clearly demonstrated, however reduction in growth is also found among Hiroshima children.