[ RadSafe ] BEIR VII Report

[Scott, Bobby]

Epidemiological studies cannot determine the true shape of the
dose-response curve for cancer induction at low radiation doses (e.g.
low-LET radiation doses < 100 mGy).  This raises the question as to
whether a committee comprised largely of epidemiologist is the best
choice of experts for such a determination.  Basic research (including
mechanistic modeling) at low doses is required to determine the shape
(or shapes) of the dose-response curve for cancer induction.  Such
research is currently underway around the world. For example, in the US,
the Department of Energy Low Dose Radiation Research Program involves
such research which is being carried out by many outstanding basic
researchers.  The indicated basic research appears to have been given
considerable weight in the recent report by the French Academy of
Sciences entitled "Dose-effect relationships and estimation of the
carcinogenic effects of low doses of ionizing radiation" which found the
LNT model invalid.  It will be interesting to see how much of the
published basic research associated with low-dose irradiation was
considered in the BEIR VII report which concluded that the LNT model was
valid even for doses < 100 mSv.  Interestingly, it appears that only one
member of the BEIR VII committee is currently conducting basic research
that relates clarifying the shape of the dose-response curve at low
doses for cancer induction by irradiation.

 

Bobby R. Scott, Ph.D.

Senior Scientist

Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute