Countries far from war zones, including most Asean countries, have not been spared the effects of bombings that cause depleted uranium poison gas to be carried by air currents all over the world which, in turn, have caused a surge in diabetes and fertility problems.
At a panel discussion on War and Banned Weapons at the Criminalize War Conference, American radiation expert Dr Leuren Moret said based on her study on the average annual population rate in the world, the global average population declined when bomb testings were completed – more in developed countries than in less-developing countries.
She explained that the low, high and medium air currents from the areas where bombs are dropped travel to areas as far away as Punjab, the Himalayas and Southeast Asia and enters the environment and rivers in the region through rain. The effects will be felt globally, she said.
Moret said among the proven effects of uranium on the reproductive system are an increase in endometriosis and ovulation disorders in addition to causing changes in chromosomes that, in turn, will result in more instances of gender disorders, including hermaphroditism (having both, male and female sexual organs). This has already been detected in wildlife, especially fish which is an indication of the effects of water pollution.
She said the effects of uranium on diabetes has been known since studies on the effects of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Similarly, in December 2006, there was an increase in diabetes cases in northern Israel two months after bombings in the area. There were also negative effects on unborn children, especially in countries with poor healthcare facilities as there was a higher risk of autism.
Moret said there has also been a 40% drop in sperm quality among Israeli men over the past 10 years as a result of the use of depleted uranium weapons given to them by Americans. “You cannot use nuclear weapons without nuking yourself,” she said. “Israelis are actually sterilising themselves,” she said, adding that Palestinians are also affected, and that in time to come, artificial insemination will become much sought after as a result of depleted uranium poisoning.
If you would like to make a comment, please fill out the form below.
You must be logged in to post a comment.
