Se eee
increased body burdens of cesium caused by eating certain foods.
The experiences of these people have aroused concern,
fear among many Marshallese.
Consequently,
anxiety and
the general topic of
radiation and its health effects are very confusing to the Marshallese.
Despite past efforts to inform the people about radia-
tion risks and necessary safety precautions, many misunderstandings
_
still prevail.
Radiological-related decisions and policies affecting Marshall
Islanders can best be made and developed if data on the physical
and biological dimensions of atoll cleanup and resettlement are
supplemented with social and psychological knowledge.
Specifically,
this study will focus on the communication process between governMental agencies and Marshallese communities concerning radiological
topics.
The results will assist DOE to effectively inform resettl~{/
ing Marshallese of monitoring activities and safety and health
standards associated with radiation levels.
The improved communi-
cation process can minimize disruption of communities, increase comMunity understanding of health and safety standards,
and improve
intercultural relations.
Six sequentially related research tasks are proposed in this
study, which will require 151 man months of effort.
These tasks
involve use of sociocultural and psychological research techniques,
including analysis of existing archival documents,
interviews with
federal agencies and Marshallese representatives, and direct observation of activities occurring on certain atolls.
The total research
effort will coincide with the eventual resettlement of Enewetak
Atoll in
late
1980,