Blue Ribbon Panel Report on RERF

["Joseph.Weiss" <Joseph.Weiss@hq.doe.gov>]

International Blue Ribbon Panel Report on Radiation Effects
Research Foundation

     The U.S. Department of Energy and the Japanese Ministry of
Health and Welfare have received from an "International Blue Ribbon
Panel" a report that will help shape the future operations of the
Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF) and strengthen and
enhance its research program.  As a research institute jointly
supported by the U.S. and Japan, the RERF, and its predecessor
agency the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC), have conducted
research and studies on the medical effects of radiation in atomic
bomb survivors for the past 50 years. 
     The Panel recommended continued strong support for the core
RERF research programs centered in the Departments of Epidemiology
and Statistics and their studies of radiation risk, including
cancer mortality and incidence, as well as the support functions of
the Information Technology Department.  The Adult Health Studies
and studies on the health of the offspring of the survivors (F1
generation) were recognized as direct benefits to the survivors. 
Advice was provided on the development of a new and strengthened
scientific peer review process and promotion of stronger
collaborations with universities and organizations within Japan and
also with international organizations.  The Panel also provided
recommendations concerning additional studies to be undertaken or
reviewed, expertise requirements in specific scientific areas,
sharing of data sets and biological specimens for research outside
of the RERF, strategic planning processes, and the role of the
Science Council in the assessment and guidance of research at the
RERF. 
     The RERF funding agencies, the Department of Energy and the
Ministry of Health and Welfare, are grateful to the distinguished
panel, chaired by Professor Roger Clarke, Chairman of the
International Commission on Radiological Protection and Director of
the United Kingdom National Radiological Protection Board, for the
Report, which will provide direction for the future of the RERF.  
     The complete Report of the Blue Ribbon Panel is available
electronically at http://www.eh.doe.gov/ihp/rerf.