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Thorium Exposure
What is thorium?
Thorium (chemical symbol Th) is a naturally-occurring radioactive metal found at very low levels in soil, rocks, and water. It has several different isotopes, both natural and man-made, all of which are radioactive. The most common form of thorium is thorium-232, found naturally.
Where does thorium come from?
Almost all thorium is natural, but, thorium isotopes can be artificially produced. Thorium occurs at very low levels in virtually all rock, soil, and water, and therefore is found in plants and animals as well. Minerals such as monazite, thorite and thorianite are rich in thorium and may be mined for the metal. Generally, artificial isotopes come from decay of other man-made radionuclides, or absorption in nuclear reactions.
How do people come in contact with thorium?
Since thorium is naturally present in the environment, people are exposed to tiny amounts in air, food and water. The amounts are usually very small and pose little health hazard. Thorium is also present in many consumer products such as ceramic glazes, lantern mantles, and welding rods.
People who live near a facility that mines or mills thorium, or manufactures products with thorium, may receive higher exposures. Also, anyone who works with thorium in various industries are likely to be exposed to higher levels of thorium.
How does thorium get into the body?
People may inhale contaminated dust, or swallow thorium with food or water. Living near a thorium contaminated site, or working in an industry where thorium is used, increases your chance of exposure to thorium.
How can thorium affect people's health?
The principal concern from low to moderate level exposure to ionizing radiation is increased risk of cancer. Studies have shown that inhaling thorium dust causes an increased risk of developing lung cancer, and cancer of the pancreas. Bone cancer risk is also increased because thorium may be stored in bone.
(EPA)
Thorium exposures can occur due to improper handling of industrial waste, unsafe working conditions and unethical business actions. These actions can cause a serious injury that may be detrimental to your health and your lifestyle. It can also affect relationships with loved ones. If you have suffered from thorium exposure due to the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation.
For a free review of your claim, please click on the link below and submit your case to a personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer will review your thorium exposure form pursuant to the site terms and conditions.
>>CLICK HERE FOR A FREE THORIUM CASE EVALUATION
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