of human beings -~ the residual radioactivity, while small, has been sufficient to cause these observed abnormalities. So far as it is known, no genetic studies of germ cell material has ever been made in the Marshallese affected, therefore, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to connect any possible future developments in later generations with exposure of their antecedents. Since this is an important aspect both scientifically, and in a practical sense for the health and peace of mind of the exposed persons, the Committee finds it difficult to understand why no such studies have been made. Further elaboration on material concerning this aspect will be developed in the section immediately following this one. Genetic Studies In the three year report of 1957, the pattern was set for the rest of the reports concerning the possibility and desirability of doing genetic studies on the exposed Marshallese. It was stated that genetic studies of children of exposed Japanese in Hiroshima and Nagasaki "failed to show any significant abnormalities." The report further stated that no abnormalities had been found in the 13 children born of exposed Marshallese since the fallout occurred. The report then listed three reasons why genetic studies would be both desirable and "fruitful", i.e.: "1) The people live together as a unit and thus are easily available from year to year for study. 2) They appear to be a rather homogeneous race anthropologically, having lived in the Marshall Islands for about 2000 years with little outside intercourse. Intermarriage for such a period of time tends to produce genetic homogeneity. Height, skin color, and features are fairly uniform. 3) Consanguinous marriages are prevalent .. . and have produced a backlog of ‘bad’ genes as evidence by the high incidence of congential abnormalities. Radiation induced mutations would be likely to be reinforced by such marriages." (p. 20) 105 POTHTI2