how do iodine tablets, taken in the event of a nuclear attack, work?

Iodine tablets are already available near nuclear power plants in France. “Because in the event of a nuclear accident, like in Fukushima or Chernobyl, there may be a release of radioactive iodine into the air. And if it attaches to the thyroid, later it causes cancer “explains the doctor and journalist Damien, present on the set of 12/13, Tuesday March 8.

On the other hand, by taking potassium iodide, namely stable and non-radioactive iodine, it acts as a shield against the thyroid. “It’s going to be filled with stable iodine, and if we breathe radioactive iodine, [il] will not be able to settle and will be eliminated”, continues the doctor. However, it is necessary to wait for the instructions of the prefect before taking them, because they are only effective 2 hours before exposure to the radioactive risk, and at the latest 6 to 12 hours after.