maintaining a euthyroid state in the operated cases and has been important in correcting growth retardation in the children. aio = P prey Sues EgdoknddutertticectSeveralYeatsago the Ailingnae group were also included in the treatment program. Serious consideration must now be given to including the exposed Utirik group also. A few in this group with thyroid nodules have been placed on Synthroid therapy. _ The development of three cases of thyroid cancer in the Utirik group was unexpected. One wonders if something is unusual in the Utirik situation since the heidence is higher than expected for cancer based on risk/rad for Rongelap and Japanese data without increase in benign nodules which are usually increased. to a greater extent from radiation. This points to the fact that we badly need more data on the general incidence of thyroid tumors in the Marshallese people. Therefore on this survey a continuation of the study of such tumors in other exposed Rongelap and Utirik people is planned. Followup will include observations with a trial period of Synthroid suppressive treatment, followed by surgery if indicated. During the past several years, with the development of more sensitive tests of thyroid function (RAI for T4, TSH, T3, TSH and TRH stimulation tests) extensive examinations of the exposed Rongelap people have indicated that some of the exposed Rongelap people who have shown no evidence of thyroid nodules and who appear clinically euthyroid have reduced thyroid function. Further such tests will be carried out on this survey. This finding may portend trouble ahead in some of this group. These people with biochemical hypothyroidism will be included for compensation. Examinations The forthcoming survey will include examinations of all people living on Rongelap and Utirik, including children and exposed and control Rongelap and Utirik people living on Majuro and Ebeye.. In addition a thyroid survey of unexposed Rongelap and Utirik people living at Majuro and Ebeye will be included. Potential 1979Exams (by Age + Sex) Males 14-25 >25-40 Females >40 14-25 >25-40 >4n Rong. exp, children of Rong. exp 24 16 15 24 22 12 Utirik exp, children of Utirik exp. 26 32 15 16 35 31 Rong. unexp, children of Rong. unexp. 4l 36 31 38 43 38 Utirik unexp children of Uritik unexp. 30 10 13 28 3 10 Totals: 121 94 74 106 109 91 , Grand Total: 905956 595