and
‘DOB ARCHIVES
No new cases of nodular thyroids were found during @ visit to
Utirik, nor were nodular thyroids found in controls on Likiep
and Kwajalein Atolls,
The major medical problem is to persuade the people to take their
thyroid hormon. supplement on a regular routine schedule,
This
has not yet recon solved,
To summarize, all but 2 of 19 children exposed oa Rongelap have
now exhibited thyroid dysfunction as have a smaller but significant
number of adults,
Statistics on the frequency of thyroid cancer
in Micronesians do not seem to be available; the figures for 25
countries around the world range from 0,25 (Japanese males) to
1,54 (Austrian females) per 100,000 population,
Dr. Conard also visited Bikini to collect urine samples
25 Bikini men temporarily there working to rehabilitate
these specimens plus coconut crabs will be analyzed for
137¢s and 238-23 Pu,
Plans are going forward for whole
counting of the population before they return from Kili
from the
the island;
9 Sr,
body
to Bikini.
A low key public announcement of these findings is being considered
by Brookhaven National Laboratory.
The same information is being forwarded to Mr, Bauser for the
information of the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy.
John R, Totter
Director
Division of Biology and Medicine
bec:
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cy Q) >
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