Toxicological evaluation of the effects of cesium-137 on human HEALTH

Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope of cesium, is an element that emits beta and gamma radiation and has a half-life of 30 years. It is important to determine the effects of this element on human health, especially after nuclear weapons tests and leaks or accidents in nuclear power plants, which spreads to the environment and participates in the food chain. However, the literature data shows that the information on the effects of cesium-137 on human health is not sufficient, and it is understood that the authorized institutions in the world also make contradictory statements about the risks of exposure to this element. The fact that the nuclear power plants located in countries close to Turkey are based on old technology and that there is a nuclear power plant in our country, which has started to be established, makes us think that more information should be known about the risk of exposure to cesium-137. On the other hand, there are different sources of exposure to cesium-137. Considering the knowledge gaps on the subject, within the scope of this thesis, it is aimed to evaluate the effects of cesium-137 on human health in terms of toxicology by examining existing scientific studies. With this study, which is prepared as a result of a comprehensive evaluation of national and international current sources, it is thought to create a comprehensive reference source on the effects of the said radioactive element on human health, treatment approaches and ways of protection.