[The prevalence of respiratory organ diseases among those who cleaned up the accident at the Chernobyl Atomic Electric Power Station].

Epidemiological investigation of 206 males aged 30-45 exposed to radiation while working from May 1986 to March 1987 (the period of most likely radioactive dust inhalation damage) in radionuclide-contaminated zone after the Chernobyl accident has been performed. Chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma occurred in the examinees 4.1 and 7.1 times more frequently than in nonexposed controls. The exposure to radionuclides was found related to subsequent respiratory disorders. Bronchopulmonary diseases in the emergency crews exposed to radiation were encountered in 42.5% which is two times more frequently than in control subjects. In view of this, it is necessary to introduce urgently special prophylactic programs for the above subjects.