title: Defense against nuclear weapons: a decision analysis.
abstract: Response to the public health threat posed by nuclear weapons is a medical imperative. The United States, in contrast to other nations, has chosen a course that assures maximal casualties in the event of a nuclear attack, on the theory that prevention of the attack is incompatible with preventive measures against its consequences, such as blast injuries and radiation sickness. A decision analysis approach clarifies the risks and benefits of a change to a strategy of preparedness.
mesh_terms: D002959:Civil Defense; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D003657:Decision Making; D003662:Decision Theory; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D009689:Nuclear Warfare; D011336:Probability; D014586:USSR; D014481:United States