MORBIDITY IN A LARGE COHORT STUDY OF CHILDREN BORN TO MOTHERS EXPOSEDTO RADIATION FROM CHERNOBYL

Reproductive health was reviewed in four oblasts of the Republic of Be larus that were either heavily exposed (Mogilev and Gomel) or lightly exposed (Brest and Vitebsk) to ionizing radiation after the meltdown o f a nuclear reactor in Chernobyl. A retrospective analysis was conduct ed on pregnancies occurring between January 1, 1982, and December 31, 1990, and a comparison of results was made between pregnancy outcomes prior to and after the meltdown for individuals residing in heavily ex posed and lightly exposed oblasts. Pregnant women who resided in heavi ly exposed oblasts appeared to be at risk for development of toxemia, renal insufficiency and anemia. Neonates born in heavily contaminated areas were apparently at risk for development of anemia and congenital malformations and perinatal death. In addition, a cohort of 757 neona tes, 0-18 months old, with a normal physical examination, was identifi ed for laboratory analysis of hematological, immunological, endocrinol ogical and nutritional status. Decreased levels of copper and zinc wer e documented in erythrocytes from neonates from heavily contaminated o blasts, findings that may be related more to inadequate nutrition than to radiation exposure. Increased absolute ''null'' lymphocyte number and diminished absolute T lymphocyte number with a reduction in the '' helper'' (i.e., T4) subclass of T cells were evident in neonates born in heavily exposed oblasts. Geographic differences in reproductive hea lth and immune status are apparent in Belarus that may be related to r adiation exposure. Additional studies are required to exclude confound ing variables and possible selection bias.