»
wt!
r.
~
is
——
-
aa
OS ak
NE
we
eo
CONES
“\ J
er oe
f ae.
oy
\
1. Q.
A.
VW
we
aosals
roses
~
a
ineeeees RESPONSE TO INQUIRIES -MARSHALLESE ISLANDS~JOURNAL OF AMA ARTICLE
What is new in the article by Dr. Conard in the latest (May 10) JAMA?
It states that non-malignant nodules were discovered in the thyroid
glands of three Marshallese girls, two Marshallese boys, and a woman
during the tenth and eleventh annual medical surveys of the Rongelap
people.
2. 9.
A.
(10th - March, 1964; llth - March, 1965).
Are the nodules in the thyroid radiation-connected?
We believe so.
Since they have been found in these six individuais
in the exposed population and not in the unexposed group, we must
assume that the nodules are radiation-connected,
3. Q.
A.
Are the nodules likely to become malignant?
No malignancy has been observed, but we cannot rule out the possibility
of malignancy.
With continued observation, however, one may minimize
the effects of malignant change, should it occur.
4. Q.
When were these people exposed to radiation and how many were in the
group?
A.
A total of 86 people of Rongelap Atoll were accidentally exposed to
fallout radiation From a thermonuclear device tested on March 1, 1954.
5. Q.
What were the circumstances surrounding radiation exposure of these
people?
(more)