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We are just starting the dossier preparation, but research indicates that long term effects from Chernobyl are not a problem for children being born today. You may want to do a Internet search or check on some of the Yahoo Message boards re: adoption from Belarus. They have info. in their files about Chernobyl and health risks.
Beth
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I researched this area extensively and read medical journals from internatinal doctors studying effects 10 years after Chernobyl incident. Result: children living in certain area (Gomel, etc) had a 7 times greater risk of thyroid cancer. Put into perspective:
1. rate of thyroid cancer in children is negligible, so 7 times this rate is also still low.
2. thyroid cancers one of most treatable in early stages. Just be sure to test child with 4 panel blood test every few years.
3. all children come into world with risk for something - this is manageable.
Reason for risk is that top soil is still affected, affecting food supply.
Our son is fine, he was 4 1/2 at adoption, 2 years ago. He is a bright, happy, loving, fun kid. He was underfed, but is catching up, as do all internationally adopted children. He has had no health problems - not even a cavity.