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Exposure Worry: The Psychological Impact of Perceived Ionizing Radiation Exposure in British Nuclear Test Veterans

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  • George Collett

    (Centre for Health Effects of Radiological and Chemical Agents, Institute of Health, Medicine and Environments, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK)

  • William R. Young

    (Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK)

  • Wendy Martin

    (Centre for Health Effects of Radiological and Chemical Agents, Institute of Health, Medicine and Environments, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK)

  • Rhona M. Anderson

    (Centre for Health Effects of Radiological and Chemical Agents, Institute of Health, Medicine and Environments, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK)

Abstract

Potential psychological issues faced by British nuclear test veterans have been under-researched. This study assessed the prevalence of clinically relevant anxiety in British nuclear test veterans and aimed to explore experiences of worry and the broader psychological impact of the British nuclear weapons testing programme. The Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (Short-Form) was completed by 89 British nuclear test veterans (33.7% met the criteria for clinically relevant anxiety). Nineteen veterans then participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the data generated three themes. The first theme highlighted how worry was relevant only in a few cases (four) generally regarding their grandchildren’s health, but the guilt in those who perceive responsibility for family health conditions also appeared to be a pertinent issue. The second theme highlighted the anger towards authorities resulting from perceived negligence and deception. The third theme highlighted the relevance of how certain life events across the life course influence the potential psychological impact. This study suggests that guilt must be considered in (potentially) exposed individuals whose family members experience health conditions, which may exacerbate distress. It also suggests the importance that authorities ensure transparency when dealing with any radiological exposure scenario to reduce the potential for anger.

Suggested Citation

  • George Collett & William R. Young & Wendy Martin & Rhona M. Anderson, 2021. "Exposure Worry: The Psychological Impact of Perceived Ionizing Radiation Exposure in British Nuclear Test Veterans," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(22), pages 1-18, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:22:p:12188-:d:683786
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Danzer, Alexander M. & Danzer, Natalia, 2016. "The long-run consequences of Chernobyl: Evidence on subjective well-being, mental health and welfare," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 135(C), pages 47-60.
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