Radiation Risk
In reply to Dr. Butterworth’s letter concerning radiation-induced mutations (The Scientist, July 25, page 14), it is important to note that Schull et al (Science 213:1220,1981) reported that in no instance was there a statistically significant effect of parental exposure on genetic alterations in the children born to survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Does Dr. Butterworth recommend evacuating the Rocky Mountain States since there is an increased total body exposure of 3 rem by the age of 30 resulting from residence there compared to residence here in the United States?
ROSALYN S.YALOW
Veterans Administration
Medical Center
Bronx, N.Y 10468
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