Effect of Radiological Countermeasures on Subjective Well-Being and Radiation Anxiety after the 2011 Disaster: The Fukushima Health Management Survey

• DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15010124
• Publication Date: 2018-01-15T09:01:55Z
• Authors: Michio Murakami; Yoshitake Takebay...; Yoshihito Takeda; Akiko Sato; Yasumasa Igarashi; Kazumi Sano; Tetsuo Yasutaka; Wataru Naito; Sumire Hirota; Aya Goto; Tetsuya Ohira; Seiji Yasumura; Koichi Tanigawa
• Keywords: Worry

After the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident in 2011, concerns about radiation exposure and decline subjective well-being have been reported. To tackle these problems, various countermeasures relation to implemented. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated effects of radiological on (e.g., satisfaction with life (SWL) emotional well-being) anxiety, through a questionnaire survey targeting residents (N = 1023). Propensity scores matching was applied evaluate significant anxiety. Among countermeasures, thyroid examination, whole body counter, air dose monitoring showed highest proportions participation, utilization, useful evaluation, suggesting high degree public attention focused countermeasures. The basic associated increases SWL self-rated health (SH). Thyroid examination significantly not only reduction anxiety but also an increase stress, importance careful design system detailed communication. Food inspection deterioration SH. Those who utilized explanatory meetings sadness, worry, indicating that additional is required experts authorities involved meetings.