Radiation Exposure and Public Health Impacts: Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant Phase I Before and After Extension

Abstract This study evaluates the ambient radiation levels and their impact on public health around the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant (QNPP) before and after the extended service of its Phase I project. By monitoring the cumulative ambient external exposure dose around QNPP from 2010 to 2023 and analyzing the health data of residents in Haiyan County from 2012 to 2022, changes in cancer mortality-related rates were examined.Results showed that during the study period, ambient radiation around QNPP remained at background levels. Although the annual cumulative ambient dose increased after the extended service, the annual effective dose and excess risk still remained well below the standard limits. From 2012 to 2022, the crude cancer mortality rate and age-standardized mortality rate among residents near QNPP were slightly higher than the average levels in Zhejiang Province, with males having higher rates than females; however, an overall downward trend was observed. The mortality rates of leukemia and thyroid cancer also showed a decreasing trend.In conclusion, the current operation of QNPP has not caused significant radiation impacts on the surrounding environment or public health. Nevertheless, continuous monitoring is necessary to ensure environmental safety and public health.