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downwinder

downwinder
 n.— «Nuclear testing in Nevada during the 1950s and 1960s released radiation into the atmosphere that settled in states far away from the original test site. Researchers determined that certain elements of this fallout, such as the radioactive isotope Iodine-131, settled in states such as Idaho and Montana and found their way into food and milk supplies. Radioactive contamination can manifest itself as various forms of cancer, leukemia and other illnesses, particularly thyroid cancer. Those affected in this way are often referred to as “downwinders,” to denote their situation downwind from the fallout.» —“Idaho, Montana Downwinder Bill Reintroduced” American Chronicle (Beverly Hills, California) June 25, 2009. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)

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