Radiation epidemiology

Radiation epidemiologists seek a variety of ends, but two are particularly relevant to this conference. First, they strive to understand the biologic bases of radiation-related health effects, and second, to provide guidance to those agencies charged with ensuring and adequate measure of safety in the workplace and to the public when exposure to ionizing radiation occurs. As more data and knowledge have accumulated, a number of revisions have occurred in the regulatory standards. Each successive one has lowered the doses recommended, and has further qualified their application. (author). 20 refs