. . Project Title: 16. Human Health Effecrs from Energy Generation Medical Studies of the People of the Marshall Islands Accidentally Exposed to Fallout Technical Progress in FY 1978: (Cont'd) GK-01-02-01-1-(a) During the past year the bill authorizing compensation to certain of the Utirik and Rongelap people for radiation injuries has been signed by the President and preparations are under way to initiate these payments. A study of diabetes, a serious disease in the Marshall Islands, was initiated several years ago and continues: During the past year an intestinal parasite survey was started at Rongelap Atoll with studies of stool specimens and serological testing (immunofluorescence). Anthelmintic therapy (Vermox) has been started on nearly the entire popu- lation. A large percentage of the people had positive stools for parasites , and it is hoped that these parasites may be virtually eliminated in this island group by the treatment regimen. As part of the expanded medical studies a trailer is being obtained for laboratory purposes at the Hospital at Ebeye and will be used by the Resident Physician and his assistant. A program to educate the people of Rongelap and Utirik regarding radiation and its effects was implemented during the past year. During the time of the annual surveys lectures were given to the people by members of the medical team and in addition Dr. Naidu, of Brookhaven remained on Rongelap island for over a month indoctrinating the people about radiation. Radiological monitoring of people living on Rongelap, Utirik, and Bikini, including radiochemical analyses of urine samples and whole body gammaspectrographic analyses, was done. Evaluation of low-levels of plutonium detected in the urines of Bikini and Rongelap people continues. It is still uncertain if contamination of urine samples may be a factor. A disturbing finding was a sudden increase in the 137¢s levels in the Bikini people although still well below the MPBB. It was apparent that the people had been eating the locally grown breadfruit and pandanas. The course of action to be taken with regard to the Bikini people is uncertain at this time. Two new physicians are being hired for the program. Dr. W. Grant will replace Dr. K. Knudsen ag the Resident Physician and Dr. H. Pratt will eventually replace Dr. R. Conard when he retires. In addition, a Physician's Assistant, Mr. Richard Coppola, has been hired and will join the Resident Physician at Kwajalein to assist in medical care in the islands. This acquisition is in relation to the expanded medical program described above. The attitudes of the Rongelap and Utirik people toward the examinations has improved, due partly to a better understanding of the objectives of the medical team as a result of the increased educational program, and partly to an improved attitude of the Marshallese politicians. However, activist groups from Japan and a law firm in the United States continue to cause unrest among the people. (See Continuation Sheet) 6kK- (30