Science Friday A Nagasaki Survivor And Physician Recounts His Life's Work
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Aug 6, 2025 Dr. Masao Tomonaga, a Nagasaki bombing survivor and director emeritus of the Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Hospital, reflects on his remarkable life and career. He discusses the immediate and long-term health impacts of radiation exposure, particularly the rise of leukemia among survivors. Tomonaga shares poignant stories from his work with hibakusha, highlighting resilience amidst tragedy. He also emphasizes the importance of nuclear disarmament and advocates for the young generation to carry the message of peace forward.
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Surviving Nagasaki Bombing
- Masao Tomonaga has no memory of the atomic bombing but his mother later described escaping a collapsing house.
- His mother rescued him from a narrow space on the second floor before the firestorm spread.
Radiation Linked to Leukemia
- Acute leukemia incidence rose among atomic bomb survivors close to ground zero, proving radiation dose dependency.
- This early discovery linked radiation exposure directly to the increased leukemia rates in Nagasaki and Hiroshima.
Personal Fear Inspired Medical Career
- Masao Tomonaga feared he might develop leukemia from radiation exposure like other hibakusha.
- This fear motivated him to study medicine and learn why radiation induces leukemia.