contain malignancy, and, while all reported evidence would suggest that this single case from Utirik may have been the only “normal” case of thyroid cancer, it is difficult for the people to believe this while they are aware of what happened on Rongelap. Again, misunderstanding resulting from poor communication and explanations together with the general un- persists in the minds of the people, certainty about their future because of their exposure. 3. The unexposed Rongelapese and Utirikese. One of the neces- sities in the examinations and studies carried out by the team is to have a group of persons who are of similar background, but not exposed to the fallout radiation of 1954, age, and sex These people re- present what is known in medical parlance as a “control” or “comparison" group. In laboratory experiments with rats, mice, guinea pigs or flies there are usually two groups. One group is exposed to a chemical or other influencing agent, while the other “control” group is not. studying both groups, By scientists can tell what specific effects the influencing agent has had on the group experimented upon. Ina similar fashion, those Rongelapese and Utirikese who are examined and give blood and urine samples, provide a group which the doctors can use in comparison with the exposed people, It was this group which was the most vocal in expressing dislike of the examinations. They indicated that they resented being examined and, in many cases, if such examinations were to be continued in the future they should be compensated for them, While the Committee can understand such a request, its major concern is that the people do not understand how their role as a control group is helpful to their exposed brethren. a Se 163 Again, it is due to a lack of