- 18 - with what is known of the diet and living patterns Of the people, and perform what the scientists call a “dose assessment.” This is an exceedingly elaborate process which attempts to take measurements and perform calculations so as to predict the future exposure. Only by this means can one make a judgment whether it is within exceptable_limits, or whether some protective measures must be undertaken. (4) Unfortunately pernaps, the people of these islands cannot afford to be ignorant about radiation. They must understand a fair,amount about the physics of radiactive materials, they must be educated about radionuclides in the environment and they must be informed about the health effects of ionizing radiation. At Bikini and Enewetak we would expect the program to give greater emphasis to environmental study, dose assessment, and education. At Rongelap all four elements would receive equal, high emphasis. For those who need medical care, such as the people at Rongelap, it makes no sense to try to take care of only what is thought to be their “radiation-related” problems, Aswe have said, there is no way to search for and find the problems which may have in fact resulted from the radiation and distinguish those from any others. Nor is it humane for a health care program serving Rongelap to examine the patient for a thyroid Ear NG ee 7. thew » ERs if pe wet ‘ At oy, tat rete mes eee OY BASS @ os on Tee rand eat we, 1. r oO