Análise do risco à saúde de uma população exposta a radioatividade natural no semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro

Abstract

The uranium present in the geological formation of some cities in Rio Grande do Norte State contribute with an environmental contamination by radionuclides, among them radon gas and lead from the spontaneous decay process of this element. Natural radioactivity is capable of generating several negative effects on human health. In view of this, the present study aimed to assess the damages to the health of the population from the municipality of Lajes Pintadas/RN, facing the environmental contaminants present in the region. In order to achieve this objective, the following methodologies were carried out: assessment of the risk perception by the exposed population; the quantification of radon gas in residences; quantification of lead in environmental and biological samples; evaluation of effects at genetic level by genotoxicity test; and a bibliographical review on this topic in the State. The data generated from the risk perception assessment showed that the population presents socioeconomic conditions that make it vulnerable to the environmental concerns established there. Even the majority of the population does not present knowledge about natural radiation, there is a clear perception about the presence of a problem that is causing damage to the health of the residents. Considering the results from the risk assessment, it was possible to detect that there are low levels of lead in the environmental compartments and the population is effectively exposed to geogenic lead. In addition, exposure to high levels of radon in the Region were found fact that could compromise the health of the resident population. The presence of this gas may be associated with the high frequency of cell death observed in the individuals studied. However, evidence of the observed genetic damage supports the idea that the radioactivity present in the region is one of the causative agents of cell changes. Thus, these results point to the importance of studying the impact of by-products of natural radiation in this region, since there is still little research in this area, as identified by the literature review. Based on the analysis of these data, it is possible to manage this risk area, adopting actions that could minimize the adverse impacts generated on the health of the population. However, such concern is not a reality in underdeveloped countries such as Brazil. Despite being a scientifically proven human health concern, public policies do not invest in resources and as a result, government has to invest more and more in the health care of those who may be victims of the effects of exposure to natural radioactivity.