I found it interesting that I only very recently read about the possible positive affects of iodine in the event of a nuclear incident since I was one of the terrified teenagers in the 60's who felt pretty sure I would never live to be 21 and be able to go into a bar and order a drink.
"How do iodine pills work?
Iodine tablets can be taken to reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer in the event of a nuclear accident, according to the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority.
Radioactive iodine released during such an event can be absorbed by the thyroid gland when inhaling contaminated air, but iodine tablets help stop this absorption and as a result reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer.
In 2011, Japanese authorities recommended that people around the site of the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant take iodine.
However, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission notes that it is a "very specialised protection".
"Evacuation is the most effective protective measure in the event of a radiological emergency,'' it says.
"Because it protects the whole body (including the thyroid gland and other organs) from all radionuclides and all exposure pathways".
