~3.o. is not surprising that, with the information then available, thyroid disease was not expected in the Utirik people. Even more important is that only very recently information became available from several sources that the thyroid gland, especially in children, is conaiderably wore sensitive to radiation than was anticipated in 1954, Taking these factors together, we believe now, many yeare later, that the thyroid cancers in the Utirik people may be caused by radiation. At this time we are not able to predict whether more cases are to be expected in the exposed membera of the Utirik population. It is, therefore, of the greatest importance that the regular medical examinations be continued in the future. By having regular medical examinations, signa 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 ia of great importance that the leaders of the people of Utirik explain to their people the purpose and the importance of the regular medical examinations. Many people living in the Marshall Islands District suffer from diabetes. During the visite, the doctors from ERDA have tried to learn more about thie disease so that they could better treat the people. Not all doctors agree about the kinds of medicine to be used for treatment. I feel confident that the treatment used by Dr. Knudsen, and as recommended by an expert in this dieeage, wlil benefit the Utirik people who suffer from this disease. With regard to your concer about the arrow-root plants, I have no reason to believe that the reduced size of the plants is caused —~ et _by radiation. I say this because, from what is known about radiation effects in plants, the Levels of radiation on Utirik are far too low to cause plant damage, Conducting the medical examinations and treating people of the islands whenever necessary have been largely in the hands of Dra. Conard and Knudsen, and during the past year, Dr. Kotrady. On many occasions, expert medical advice was invited from the best doctors in the field, many of whom as you know participated in the actual medical examinations. zt ds my belief that Drs. Conard, Knudsen and Kotrady are very capable and conscientious doctors who are deeply committed to the health and welfare of the people of Utirik. Moreover, the report by the Special Committee on Rongelap and Utirik, which was formed by the Congress of Micrenesia, was generally favorable with regard to the examinationa. GU «i350 ) 380