Integrating the science of low-dose radiation exposure: science, perceptions, learning, and communication

Public attitudes to healing isotopes and public attitudes to large nuclear facilities are diametrically opposed. By exploring cutting edge science on low dose research together with social learning and public engagement can we have a constructive science and public policy dialogue? This panel will explore mechanisms of engagement. Medical and nuclear research documents the impacts of low dose exposure to radiation. The public perceives exposure to radiation within the health sector as acceptable and therapeutic risk, but the perception does not yet correlate to the use of nuclear power and possibilities of low dose exposure. As new generation technologies for nuclear power emerge, and the fields of anthropogenic exposure to low dose radiation advance, uniting these scientific advances becomes increasingly important. There is both the opportunity for, and the importance of uniting interdisciplinary science in relation to low dose radiation exposure with policy, public perception, and communication. This panel will first discuss low-dose radiation science (as presented by Drs. Klokov and Le). Dr. Klokov will present on the international science findings on exposure to low dose radiation. Dr. Le will present on the current understanding of biological effects of low dose radiation. Drs. Rayner and Hurlbert will summarize public attitudes to nuclear power and low dose radiation and interdisciplinary plan for advancing policy and public communication science in the future.