Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission

The Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC) was established in 1947 by the U.S. to study the long-term health effects of radiation exposure on survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Its goal was to understand how radiation impacted their health, particularly regarding cancer and genetic effects, to improve medical care and safety guidelines. The commission conducted research, health screenings, and medical studies on survivors, emphasizing scientific investigation while navigating complex ethical and cultural issues. It played a key role in advancing knowledge about radiation’s effects on human health in the aftermath of nuclear attacks.