Again, I should like to point to the wide range of permissib]
opinion which exists in the study of human genetics and the need,
Until further scientific
therefore, for further research,
knowledge is acquired, it is not permissable to indulge in
categorical statements as to the long range genetic effects of
radiation,
However,
on the basis of factual evidence we now possess,
the Commission's scientific advisers conclude that the amount of
radiation exposure from all nuclear tests up to now is such a
small fraction of the exposure which occurs naturally from the
soil, water and air it 1s impossible to expect to detect a genetic
change, even over the area of an entire population of many million
people,
The medical and biological advisers of the Atomic Energy
Commission are of the belief that the possibility of serious
genetic effects from the small amount of additional radiation
produced by the atomic testing program is remote, unless an
assumption is made that the human race is poised on such a delicate
genetic balance that any amount of radiation, no matter how small,
might upset the equilibrium,
There appears to be no seitentific
basis for such an assumption,
However, as stated, the Commission
is continuing its thorough studies in this field and its findings
will be reported to the Americen people.
The eppraisal which the
National Academy of Sciences will undertake will be broad in
~
JO
-~
ee