What health organization recommends the use of potassium iodide during nuclear emergencies?

The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a key role in public health policy and guidelines on a global scale, particularly concerning radiation safety and emergency management. During nuclear incidents, the WHO recommends the use of potassium iodide (KI) as a protective measure against radioactive iodine exposure. This recommendation is based on potassium iodide's efficacy in saturating the thyroid gland, thereby preventing the absorption of harmful radioactive isotopes.

While other organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), provide guidance on health-related issues and manage public health responses, the primary international authority for radiation emergencies, including the recommendations concerning potassium iodide, falls under the purview of the WHO. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental health standards and regulations rather than direct health recommendations in the context of nuclear emergencies. Therefore, the WHO's endorsement highlights the importance of potassium iodide in protecting public health during potential nuclear exposure scenarios.