TaPore svaer L/t99R fice, Pree Rr | i$ THE Tut) BROOKHAVEN Dee/WV EPOSITORY — we 10% No. ABE, 70 — t NATIONAL LABORATORY ce DNE | AC PEE one; camber 27, Decemb 27, 1976 TO:Robert A. Conard, M.D. MED, wr WOFe :OLDER ——-C4—-ZHE To - MEMORANDUM “f E. 0 DA- # 3% a Dn CovkRD . wh Ga“ p FROM: Jan Naidu Rende- 2 7 SUBJECT:Educational Program at Rongelap Though many previous attempts have been made by the medical team and environmental monitoring groups at Rongelap to explain radiation and its effects to the people, the time element and the language barrier has made this difficult. In view of recent events it is more important than ever to institute an educat~ional program. This could be best accomplished by having one of the scientific staff involved in this program stay on Rongelap for an extended period for this purpose, During the September/October 1976 visit to Rongelap, the people asked if I would be willing to come back to Rongelap for an extended stay to do this. It is therefore proposed that I be allowed to accompany Dr. Knudsen on his January trip to Rongelap and remain there until the ERDA/T.T. meeting on that island. a. I would like to lecture on the following topics: The nature of the radioactive atom (formation, the types of radiation, half life) b. the interaction of radiation with matter ec. the concept of protection from radiation d. the biological interaction with radiation e. the problems associated with lowlevel exposure to radiation f. the importance of the medical examinations g. the radioactivity of other parts of the world, including natural radiation background As you know, Mr. Jerry Knight, on Rongelap, speaks excellent Marshallese and has agreed to help me in every way possible with this program. In addition, the entire proceedings will be taped and should prove useful in the future. This is an ambitious program, however, the specific plan of action can only be decided after being there. Every effort will be made to encourage questions from the resi- dents so as to recognize the areas of misconception. matters will be avoided. Questions regarding policy It is hoped that the end result of this program will be #2 anlizhncen the peoole en radiation and also act as a guide fer further educa~i-n~_ 7 oye a2 Qe ia) OLLECTION £/PAso_ hove “Ch ms for the ‘farsnallese.