Overview
Overview
What is the Fukushima Health Management Survey (FHMS)?
Following the release of radioactive materials and evacuation of residents after the nuclear accident, the FHMS was launched to estimate external exposure doses of the people in Fukushima Prefecture and to ascertain their health status, is essential for prevention, early detection and treatment of disease. The goal is to protect and promote the long-term health of Fukushima residents.
Implementation framework of the FHMS
Fukushima Prefecture is the responsible body to implement the FHMS, and Fukushima Medical University is commissioned to conduct actual surveys as advised by the Fukushima Prefectural Oversight Committee for the FHMS, which is composed of experts.
The Radiation Medical Science Center for the FHMS was established as the implementing organization.
Design and scheme of the FHMS
Components of the FHMS
The FHMS consists of a Basic Survey and four Detailed Surveys: Thyroid Ultrasound Examination (TUE), Comprehensive Health Check (CHC), Mental Health and Lifestyle Survey, and Pregnancy and Birth Survey.
Basic Survey
To estimate external doses during the period immediately after the nuclear accident when ambient doses were the highest.
Thyroid Ultrasound Examination
To ascertain the condition of thyroid glands in children who were age 18 or under at the time of the earthquake.
Comprehensive Health Check
To monitor the health status of residents, who may have experienced lifestyle changes due to evacuation, and for prevention, early detection, and early treatment of lifestyle-related diseases.
Mental Health and Lifestyle Survey
To monitor the health status and lifestyle of residents, who may be feeling anxiety and stress from the experience of the earthquake and nuclear accident and subsequent evacuation life, and to provide necessary care and support.
Pregnancy and Birth Survey
To monitor the health status of pregnant and nursing mothers and to provide necessary care and support to help alleviate their anxieties resulting from the earthquake and nuclear accident.
Survey Results
Detailed results of the FHMS are reported to the Fukushima Prefectural Oversight Committee. English translations of the reports are available through the following link:
Documentation of Prefectural Oversight Committee Meetings
Summaries of results of each survey are compiled and published as booklets.
Scientific papers on the results of and findings from the FHMS are available through the following link: