We are sorry that there have been conflicting reports about the
future health of the exposed people of Rongelap.
Specifically,
I strongly disagree with the Japanese newspaper report that it
is necessary to leave Rongelap because of the radiation levela on
the atoll.
There have bean many teste of soil, plants, and water
on the island, and measurements of urine and radiation in the
people living on Rongelap.
These testa show that the levels are
lew and they are getting less and less.
I share the opinion of
the Brookhaven doctors that the little bit of radiation left on
the island would not be expected to cause any health effects.
I hope to be able to make arrangements for several scientists,
not from the U.S., to vigit Rongelap in the near future and discuss
with you their findings.
We are pleased with the remarks made in your letter about the
Brookhaven medical team.
I have a great deal of confidence in
Drs. Conard and Knudsen and the other fine doctors that: have
taken part in the medical program.
I am sure they always had
your welfare at heart.
fT am convinced that the medical examinations of the Rongelap people

have been very thorough and complete with many tests on the people
and on thelr blood, urine,

etc.

Some of the most skillful doctors

in the U.S. and from other countries have taken part in these
examinations.
They have used the best equipment possible that can
be taken to the island.
You can be sure that the examination program
ensures early diagnosis and treatment of all disease.
Currently, arrangements are being discussed to permit all the people
living on Rongelap, including children, to have an examination at
least once a year by the Brookhaven doctors.
I am aleo discussing
plans with the Trust Territory to provide further education for the
Health Aides in the diagnosis and treatment of radiation effects.
i realize that at the time of the annual examinations, there is
sufficient disruption of life and that the team should provide
additional food.
I am, therefore, recommending that a sufficient
amount of food be furnished by the team during the period of the
examination.

0 | b3 To

Members of my staff and I have had several discussions with Dr. Conard
regarding the past and future medical care of the Rongelap people.
From these discussions, it hes become clear to me thet effective
medical cure can only be provided if the doctors can spend enough
time with tha people of Rongelap to talk to them and answer their
questions.
IE am, therefore, asking Dr. Conard and the other doctors
to make arrangements to stay on at Rongelap for as long as necessary

tre
phat
stl pape

as

la

cat.

2

ie

3

as

telk

to them

Select target paragraph3