| ++A-bomb Damage Continues++ |
The damage done by the A-bomb to human bodies does not heal with
passing time. This is the peculiar horror of radiation.
Japan's A-bomb disease research, greatly restricted during the occupation,
finally began to progress after Japan's independence. Only then did the
picture of hibakusha (A-bomb survivors) suffering from aftereffects become
clear.
In 1957, the Hibakusha Medical Law was put into effect, and in 1968
the Hibakusha Special Welfare Law was enacted. In 1995, both of these medical
laws related to the atomic bombing were combined into one as the Hibakusha
Relief Law, which provides more general measures for assisting the health,
welfare and medical treatment of the hibakusha. |
| ++Fetuses Injured++ |
Many children exposed to radiation in their mother's womb were born
with what became known "A-bomb microcephaly." Suffering from retarded mental
development or physical disabilities, they have survived to this day through
the tender care of relatives. Independence for these aging patients is
difficult, and assistance after the death of their relatives is a major
issue.
A-bomb microcephaly, permanent damage to utterly innocent fetuses,
is a telling example of the indiscriminate power of nuclear radiation. |
| ++"Hiroshima Maidens"++ |
In June 1952, nine "Hiroshima Maidens" traveled to Tokyo
Metropolis for treatment of keloids. This event marked the beginning of
substantive treatment for hibakusha in Hiroshima. In July, Hiroshima's
surgeons began conducting check-ups and offering treatment. In January
1953, led by the local medical association, the Hiroshima City Hibakusha
A-bomb Sufferers Treatment Council was formed. Amid these efforts, 25 additional,
young female hibakusha were invited and visited the United States for treatment
in May 1955.
"Hiroshima Maidens" receiving treatment in New York（1955). Courtesy
of Chugoku Shinbun
|
| ++ Fukuryu-maru No. 5 ++ |
In March 1954, the Fukuryu-maru No. 5, a fishing boat, was bathed
in the "ashes of death" at sea near the Bikini Atoll. The fallout was from
a nuclear test by the United States. One of the crew members died later
that autumn from symptoms similar to those common in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Acute damage from radiation of the crew became a sensational news.
Fish on landing were abandoned. The market was closed. It was reported
radiation was contained in spring rain that fell at that time. Panic spread.
Marshall islanders near the Bikini Atoll ,and U.S. soldiers who joined
the testing also suffered.
Years later, the boat was found rotting away in Tokyo Bay. It was
decided in 1973 to preserve the boat, and an exhibition hall was completed
in 1976. It serves as a witness for peace and assists the campaign to ban
atomic and hydrogen bombs.
The Fukuryu maru No.5 atter being exposed to radioactivity.
Courtecy of The Fukuryu maru No.5 Peace Association
|
| ++Health Examination for Hibakusha++ |
 The
Hibakusha Medical Law enacted in April 1957 made it possible for hibakusha
(A-bomb survivors) to receive medical examinations and treatment at the
national government's expense. In the city of Hiroshima, Hibakusha Health
Books were issued beginning on June 3 of the same year, and in August medical
examinations started at the A-bomb Hospital and public health centers.
Health checks are now available four times a year. These are useful
for earlier discovery of cancers or other diseases.
Hibakusha receiving health examinations at A-bomb Hospital (1957).
Courtesy of Chugoku Shimbun
|
| ++Overseas Hibakusha++ |
During the war, Japan funneled all resources into the war effort
and forcefully brought thousands of people to work in Japan from Korea
and other countries. Many forced laborers died in the A-bombings in Hiroshima
or Nagasaki. Many experienced the bombing but survived to return to their
countries of origin after Japan's defeat.
Other overseas hibakusha include people from China and the countries
of Southeast Asia, and Japanese who emigrated to various countries in North
and South America and throughout the world.
First memorial service for Korean hibakusha (1968). Courtesy of Chugoku
Shimbun
|