New research in Britain claims to show the Chernobyl nuclear disaster may have led to the deaths of hundreds of babies.
The research, carried out by statistician Mr John Urquhart, says western Europe is too complacent about the health effects of the 1986 nuclear accident.
Mr Urquhart analysed 80,000 birth defects in children born in England and Wales between 1983 and 1992.
At least 200 more children than normal died before their first birthday in the three years after Chernobyl. Also, an extra 600 were born with Down's syndrome, spina bifida and other abnormalities in the same years.
Mr Urquhart said radiation from the accident could have damaged the immune systems of the children or their parents, making them more vulnerable to harmful viruses.
The radiation dose received by people in Britain was at least 40 per cent of that received by people certain areas of Ukraine, according to the research.
The results of his study are published in New Scientist.
University of Manchester radiation specialist, Mr Philip Day, said: "His data appears to support his conclusions, and the matter needs thorough examination."
PA