Page 3 At all four sessions, the women repeatedly stated that there have been more miscarriages and abnormal babies on both Utirik and » Rongelap since the explosion. Those from Utirik stated this occurred during the first year after the return to their Island. Specific dates and instances could not be determined. Apparently there were four abnormal babies born to the exposed women of Rongelap who were not pregnant at the time of exposure. After much discussion among themselves, the spokesman for the women stated that there continues to be an increase in the number of miscarriages on Rongelap. According to statements made at the sessions, approximately 19 exposed persons living on Rongelap at the time of the explosion, who were under the age of 10, have developed thyroid nodules requiring surgery. Although biopsy reports indicate only 2-3 of these to be malignant, the involved patients believe that all have cancer. They are not able to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. It is apparent that some of these patients are not taking thyroxine as instructed. I emphasized at all four sessions that the prescribed medication was necessary for their health and welfare. In summary, the apparent lack of communication and understanding between the people and the medical team has been a major problem. There have been difficulties with interpretation between English and Marshallese in the past but it is not a major factor. we ees SEES be: B. Compensation: Although I did not actively participate in the sessions devoted . to compensation, the following complaints were registered: l. The exposed people of Utirik Atoll believe that they have sustained physical injury from the radiation and are entitled to just compensation. Those now living on Majuro and Ebeye stated they wanted to return to their home but were afraid of the radioactivity that remains. 2. The exposed people of Rongelap do not believe that the compensation paid to them in 1964 was adequate because of the thyroid abnormalities that have developed since that time. The Rongelapese now living on Majuro and Ebeye will not return to their home because of the residual radioactivity and the fear of related sickness.