Hi all.
I work as a NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) warfare specialist. A few month ago during an operation, there was an reactor failure, and I was sent to set up radiation containment in the area. But problem was that there was a leak in my Hazmat (Hazards Material) suit, and I was exposed lethal does of radiation (408 rem). I managed to survive the radiation poisoning, but I'm still suffering from radiation sickness. (brain damage, pupil damage, etc). I had an intercourse with my wife, about three month ago. And she got pregnant, now in her first trimester. The doctor said there shouldn't be severe birth effects, but there could be chance of Coloboma (Broken Pupil).
What are the chances of birth defects? or development defects? If so, what kind of defects?
Thanks
Joel
Hi Joel,
There are studies, one done at Stanford University, that examined the descendants of survivors of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
From one study:
"The increase in the risk of birth defects was 42 cases per 1 million pregnancies..." This is above the number from those not exposed to radiation.
Hope it helps.