NIEHS-NIH: Info for kids - uranium

["Bjorn Cedervall" <bcradsafers@hotmail.com>]

Radsafers,

The following about uranium (below) is from the 
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/external/a2z/page4.htm
page for kids.
Lets see if you have any opinions about it? Aren't
some of the other natural elements also "extremely
dangerous" because of their radioactivity (natural
background worldwide give the global population an
estimated 13 000 000 manSv per year - or why not make
it rems to impress the officials even more?)?

Uranium Poisoning
-----------------
Uranium is an extremely dangerous element because it is radioactive. This 
means it gives off high-energy particles that can go through the body and 
damage living tissue. A single high dose of radiation can kill. Small doses 
over a long period can also be harmful. For example, miners who are exposed 
to uranium dust are more likely to get lung cancer. Uranium poisoning can 
also damage the kidneys and interfere with the body's ability to fight 
infection. While most people will never come in contact with uranium, those 
who work with medical x-rays or radioactive compounds are also at risk. They 
should wear lead shields and follow recommended safety guidelines to protect 
themselves from unnecessary exposure.
-----------------
Just my own comments,

Bjorn Cedervall   bcradsafers@hotmail.com

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