Are Iodine Pills the Cure for Radiation Exposure?

In light of the recent earthquake in Japan, causing the nuclear facility to fail, many are now fearful of possible radiation exposure, not only in Japan but world wide. As the threat of the radiation exposure increases, people all over the world are taking extra precautions, just in case it should intensify. This extra precaution consists of potassium iodine. Why take iodine pills? Well, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, potassium iodine pills can protect the body against radioactive iodine, which is often found in the air, water and food after a nuclear event.

Iodine Pills for Radiation

Typically, the first physical complication associated with radiation exposure is thyroid cancer. This is where the iodine pills come into play. Potassium iodine can protect the thyroid gland from radioiodine intake. However, it won't protect other organs or areas of the body from radiation exposure.

Potassium iodine is commonly added into ordinary table salt to iodize it. Iodine is found within the blood stream, which the thyroid gland removes in order to function properly. As the thyroid gland extracts the iodine, it can't determine whether or not the iodine is radioactive. When iodine pills are used correctly, it can protect the thyroid from internal radiation, but it won't protect against external radiation . If taken, it will block the intake of radioiodine by the thyroid gland. Any iodine that isn't used by the thyroid gland is then excreted in the form of urine.

While many people are on-edge with the failing nuclear facility in Japan, President Obama urges that Americans are safe from any radiation exposure originating from Japan saying, "I've been assured that any nuclear release dissipates by the time it gets even to Hawaii, much less to the main land of the United States."

But, despite President Obama's reassurance, make Americans continue to take iodine pills for radiation exposure. In fact, many companies are reporting a large increase in the purchase of iodine pills to the point stock is running out. As many Americans choose to take the better-safe-than-sorry approach, iodine for radiation may be more difficult to find with the nuclear facility complications only increasing in Japan.

It's recommended, if radiation exposure should occur, the iodine pills should be taken daily in approximately 130 milligram doses for adults. This will prevent the thyroid gland from absorbing the harmful radiation.

References:
"Is Potassium Iodine a "Mabic Bullet" for Radiation Exposure" HPS.org
"Does Potssium Iodine Protect People from Radiation Leaks?" Scientific American