Coal-burning power plants 'affect Po210 in marine life'

Scientists have undertaken a study to discover if the concentration of trace elements of radionuclide in seafood is influenced by proximity to coal-burning power plants.

Lubna Alam, Che Abd and Rahim Mohamed formed the team behind the research, which was published in the journal Environmental Health.

They chose to assess the impact of a coal-burning power station on the concentration of the natural radionuclide Po210 in edible seafood off the coast of Kapar, in Malaysia, and the effect that this has on consumers of fish, shrimps and cockles.

The variation of Po210 in the marine life is dependant on their lifestyle, ambient water concentration and seasonal changes.

Following their investigation, the scientists found that the levels of Po210 in the fish and molluscs were higher than the trace elements recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

They also concluded that a "considerable amount" of the radionuclide can be absorbed through the internal organs of humans after consumption.

The calculated values of life time mortality and morbidity cancer risks exceeded the values recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection.