Stichting Laka

Publication Laka-library:
Depleted Uranium, Sources, Exposure and Health Effects (2001)

Author	WHO
	6-05-0-00-21.pdf
Date	April 2001
Classification	6.05.0.00/21 (DEPLETED URANIUM - GENERAL (F.I. HEALTH CONSEQUENCES))
Front

Executive Summary

This scientific review on depleted uranium is part of the World Health
Organization's (WHO's) ongoing process of assessment of possible health effects
of exposure to chemical, physical and biological agents. Concerns about possible
health consequences to populations residing in conflict areas where depleted
uranium munitions were used have raised many important environmental health
questions that are addressed in this monograph.

Purpose and scope

The main purpose of the monograph is to examine health risks that could arise from
exposure to depleted uranium. The monograph is intended to be a desk reference
providing useful information and recommendations to WHO Member States so that
they may deal appropriately with the issue of depleted uranium and human health.

Information is given on sources of depleted uranium exposure, the likely routes of
acute and chronic intake, the potential health risks from both the radiological and
chemical toxicity standpoints and future research needs. Several ways of uptake
of compounds with widely different solubility characteristics are also considered.

Information about uranium is used extensively because it behaves in the body
the same way as depleted uranium.