The primary toxicological concern during the Chernobyl disaster was the release of radioactive isotopes such as iodine-131, cesium-137, and strontium-90. These isotopes posed serious health risks due to their ability to cause cell damage and increase the risk of cancer. The acute exposure to these radionuclides led to radiation sickness in workers and first responders, while chronic exposure in the surrounding population increased the incidence of thyroid cancer and other long-term health effects.
