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But anyting that hangs around for that long becomes a constant threat, as opposed to other radioactive isotopes with shorter half lives.

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If ingested or inhaled, radioactive cesium is absorbed and distributed throughout soft tissues, particularly muscle, due to its similarity to potassium. Once inside the body, Cs-137 continues to emit radiation, increasing the risk of cancer. Internal exposure can cause symptoms similar to external exposure and may lead to reduced male fertility and developmental problems if exposure occurs during fetal development.

The primary long-term concern is an increased risk of cancer due to the internal radiation from the isotope's 30-year half-life. Chronic low-dose exposure can occur from consuming contaminated food or water in affected areas.

As for air polution and other contaminants, I won't diminish the impact of these sources. But Cesium contamination in this case is additive to the impact of air polution. It's not an either or situation; it's both.