Hiroshima survivors’ decades-long study reveals radiation’s hidden toll on health

Their pain fueled science’s greatest lessons. Decades after the bomb, *hibakusha* survivors are rewriting what we know about radiation—and the resilience of the human spirit.

, and Administrator

2025 December 9 . 7:19 PM

1 min read

In the picture I can see a news article. In this article I can see photos of buildings, fire,... — In the picture I can see a news article. In this article I can see photos of buildings, fire, smoke, the sky and some other things. I can also see something written on the article.

Hiroshima survivors’ decades-long study reveals radiation’s hidden toll on health

Nearly eight decades after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a long-running study continues to track the health of survivors and their families. The Life Span Study (LSS) has followed around 120,300 people, offering rare insights into radiation’s lasting effects. New findings now provide clearer answers about cancer risks, longevity, and the legacy of the bombings.

The bombings left deep scars, both physical and social. Survivors, known as hibakusha, endured decades of stigma due to fears about radiation exposure. Many faced discrimination based on misconceptions about genetic damage or contagion.

Survivors have long hoped their experiences would serve a greater purpose. The LSS now stands as a critical resource for science, policy, and public understanding of radiation risks. With many hibakusha still alive today, their story continues to shape discussions on health, resilience, and the enduring human cost of war.