Hibakusha

Hibakusha

Hibakusha (Japanese: 被爆者, "explosion-affected people") are the surviving victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. On August 6 and August 9, 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on these two Japanese cities, respectively. The immediate effects of the bombings killed tens of thousands of people and the subsequent radiation exposure contributed to the suffering and deaths of thousands more in the months and years that followed. The term "hibakusha" is used to describe those who survived the bombings and were exposed to the bombs' aftereffects, including radiation sickness, cancer, and other long-term health issues.

History

The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in warfare. Hiroshima was bombed on August 6, 1945, resulting in approximately 70,000-80,000 deaths immediately, with total deaths by the end of the year estimated at 140,000. Nagasaki was bombed three days later on August 9, with immediate deaths estimated between 40,000-75,000 and total deaths by the end of 1945 estimated at 74,000. The survivors of these bombings, the hibakusha, faced not only the physical injuries from the explosions but also long-term health effects from radiation exposure, including a higher risk of developing cancer.

Health Effects

The health effects on hibakusha have been studied extensively. These survivors have experienced higher rates of leukemia, breast, lung, thyroid, and skin cancers among other health issues. The Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF), a Japan-U.S. cooperative research institute, has been conducting studies on the hibakusha to understand the health effects of radiation exposure. Their research has been crucial in establishing the link between radiation exposure and cancer risk.

Social and Legal Status

Hibakusha have faced discrimination and social stigma in Japan due to misconceptions about radiation sickness being contagious or hereditary. This stigma has affected their employment opportunities, marriage prospects, and overall quality of life. In response, the Japanese government has enacted laws to provide medical support and compensation to hibakusha. The Hibakusha Assistance Law, passed in 1994, is one such legislation that aims to support the survivors. However, many hibakusha and their advocates argue that the government's support has been insufficient.

Recognition and Remembrance

The experiences of hibakusha have been memorialized in various ways, including through literature, film, and monuments. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Nagasaki Peace Park are two significant sites that honor the victims and survivors of the bombings. Additionally, hibakusha have played a crucial role in global peace and disarmament movements, sharing their stories to advocate for the abolition of nuclear weapons.

See Also

• Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• Radiation Effects Research Foundation
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Nagasaki Peace Park