Final answer:
A public health issue related to the use of nuclear energy is: Thyroid cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the public health issues related to the use of nuclear energy, it is well-documented that exposure to radioactivity can lead to various health problems. One of the particular health concerns associated with nuclear accidents is thyroid cancer, primarily due to the release of radioactive iodine into the environment. Individuals who are exposed to high levels of radioactive iodine may be at increased risk for developing thyroid cancer, which can manifest years after the initial exposure. This is illustrated by the Chernobyl disaster of 1986, which resulted in an increased incidence of thyroid cancer among those exposed, especially children.
The correct health issue related to nuclear energy use in the given choices is thyroid cancer, marked as option 'a'. Unlike the other listed options, such as asthma, cataracts, black lung, and mercury poisoning, which are associated with other environmental or occupational exposures, thyroid cancer has a direct linkage to nuclear power-related radioactivity. The answer is option a.