thyroid disease was not expected in the Utirik people. Even more important is that only very recently has information become available from several sources that the thyroid gland, especially in children, is considerably more sensitive te the-induction of-radiation indueed-tumors radiationeffects than was anticipated in the past. Taking these factors together, we can now, many years later, explain the incidence of malignant thyroid glands in the Utirik people. ft this time it-is impossible we are not able to predict whether more cases are to be expected in the exposed members of this-the Utirik population. Itis, therefore, of the greatest importance that the regular medical examinations be continued in the future. By having regular medical exmainations, signs of thyroid disease can be detected early and prompt treatment will avoid unnecessary suffering on the part of the Utirik people. For these reasons, I believe it is of great importance that the Chiefs leaders of the people of Utirik explain to their people the significance purpose and the importance of the regular medical exaMinations. Conducting the medical exmainations and treating people of the islands whenever necessary has been largely in the hands of Drs. and during the past year, Dr. Conard, Knudsen Kotrady. On many occasions, the-best expert medical advice was invited from outstanding specialists in the field, many of whom participated in the actual medical exmainations. MM oes: We believe