Nuclear Radiation Press Conference Still in the News

The PATH Foundation sponsored a press conference in May to promote the importance of stocking potassium iodide (KI) supplements in homes, schools, offices, and vehicles to counteract the effects of radioactive iodine resulting from a nuclear accident or terrorist incident. Highlights of comments made by Dr. Braverman, other doctors, and government officials at the conference:
Former Governor George Pataki
“Dr. Braverman’s work with Bernard Loeffke, PhD, Major General US Army on analyzing different approaches to managing possible radiation incidences will have significant influence on our national security and that of other countries.”
Former Governor David Paterson
“Dr. Braverman and the PATH Foundation’s ideas have consistently been ahead of our time. It is no wonder that their focus is now centered on potassium iodide distribution as a means to safeguard the surrounding population of Indian Point from the harmful effects of a nuclear accident. I stand by PATH Foundation in the proposal to designate 9/11 our ‘State or National Day of Preparedness’ to raise awareness of this issue.”
James Hurley, MD, Clinical Associate Professor Emeritus of Medicine, Weill Cornell College of Medicine
“The historical example of Poland’s utilization of KI tablets in response to the Chernobyl accident is a strong practical demonstration of the effectiveness of KI usage post a radiological event. Iodine-131 poses a great threat to the health of all New Yorkers who are just miles away from Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant. KI prophylaxis, which has substantial benefits in adults as well as in infants, children, and adolescents, should be incorporated into New York’s emergency preparedness protocols.”
Dr. Irwin Redlener, Director, National Center for Disaster Preparedness, Earth Institute at Columbia University
“Planning for the possibility of a catastrophic meltdown of nuclear power plants in the U.S. has been grossly inadequate. This is particularly true with respect to the Indian Point plant located some 25 miles north of New York City in one of the nation’s most populated regions. Children are particularly vulnerable to the long-term consequences of exposure to radiation exposure, a risk that is considerably reduced by giving them potassium iodide in pill or liquid form as soon as possible after exposure. It is unconscionable that KI is not available for rapid dissemination to every child in the region in the event of a nuclear disaster.”
Jordan Ryan, UN Assistant Secretary General, UNDP, Bureau of Crisis Prevention and Recovery
“These efforts, backed up by PATH Foundation’s scientific research and forthcoming paper, may help nations better prepare for and manage the human effects of nuclear accidents such as Fukushima, Hanover, and Chernobyl. This will be a significant contribution to a critical international relations issue of our time. The designation of a ‘National Day of Preparedness’ would promote the importance of being prepared for a nuclear disaster, or for any emergency. The plume of a nuclear event can travel 300-plus miles, spanning millions in populated areas just like New York. The metropolitan area is at risk; we are obligated to be prepared and spread awareness.”
Eric Braverman, MD, Founder and President of PATH Foundation NY
“The health effects from excessive nuclear radiation are often fatal, but can also cause catastrophic developmental problems and disabilities. By regularly treating people living close to nuclear power with low doses of Potassium Iodide, the effects of radiation exposure could be greatly mitigated if a disaster struck. Potassium Iodide as a prophylaxis treatment would save many lives, ultimately reducing the impact of a nuclear disaster.”

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