Blic, Belgrade, Yugoslavia
January 6, 2001
Dr. Obradovic on consequences of the bombing
Uranium 238 changes genetics

BELGRADE - Introduction into the organism of depleted uranium U-238 represents a great health risk because it is a radioactive isotope emitting alpha rays leading to increased ionization in the cells and subsequent to genetic mutation. In addition to other undesirable consequences, this can cause malignant changes, that is, the appearance of cancer, Prof. Dr. Vladimir Obradovic, the director of the Institute for Nuclear Medicine of the Clinical Center of Serbia explains for "Blic".

"For now we do not have conclusive evidence of the appearance of a greater number of malignant illnesses among us as a consequence of the use of ammunition filled with depleted uranium," says Dr. Obradovic.

According to him, the appearance of malignant illness is not determined exclusively by contact with radioactive material but also by the quantity of the material, the length of exposure, as well as by a series of other factors including the unique response of every organism. The greatest sensitivity to radioactive exposure is demonstrated by young organisms, nursing infants and children, and growing youth. The most sensitive tissues and organs are those which multiply rapidly such as blood, bone marrow and the lymph glands, cites Dr. Obradovic.

Many physicians shared with "Blic's" reporter their observation that during the last few years there has been an increase in the number of patients from bombed areas in BH coming to receive treatment for serious malignant illness. Z.D.M.

Translated by S. Lazovic (January 6, 2001)