D. Diet and LivingPattern Study The understanding of radionuclides body burden kinetics, and of resultant doses and dose commitments requires a quantitative assessment of radionuclide intake. Preliminary efforts to develop these data were undertaken by the MIRSP in 1977, along with the gathering of information on Marshallese living patterns. This latter information is important insofar as the assign- ment of external radiation doses is concerned because the Marshallese are not monitored for external radiation, and the external dose component must be derived from models which define the movements of people among heterogeneous radiation environments. Our prior experience in these areas resulted in the assignment of responsibility to BNL for diet and living pattern assessments in support of the 1978 NMRIS. Past experience has demonstrated that extended periods of residence by BNL scientists in a Marshallese community is the best way to gather this information. We are also convinced that it is the best way to accomplish the educational goals regarding radiation which are mandated by P.L. 96-205. For this reason, we feel that resident educational programs and diet and living pattern studies should best be conducted simultaneously. Observations of dramatic changes in diet and living patterns over the past several years also suggest that these studies be continued indefinitely. A proposal further discussing our involvement in these areas is the subject of a memorandum from J. Naidu and N. A. Greenhouse to V. Bond (copy attached). Summary This report discusses four areas in which the MIRSP should be expanded. We feel that these areas are necessary to the formulation and continuation of sound radiological programs in the Marshalls, as provided by P.L. 96-205. These activities should be viewed as being separate and distinct from the environmental and predictive dosimetry activities which to date have been conducted by LLL. They are, however, a necessary complement to the LLL programs, since they will provide actual dosimetric information against which Livermore predictive dosimetry models can be referenced. the It is important to note that the present and proposed future activities of the MIRSP all involve close interaction with the Marshallese people, a fact which is intrinsic to the BNL Medical program. Therefore, for reasons of logistical cost effectiveness, and, perhaps more importantly, the minimization of the disruptive impact of field trip activities on Marshallese communities, we feel that the Medical Program and the MIRSP should be closely coupled. aed tit ae) om o> Cc qn N. Ae Greenhouse Principal Investigator BNL Marshall [Island's Radiological Safety Program