may 24 17t

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

LAWRENCE RADIATION LABORATORY TELEPHONE (415) 447-1100
P.O. BOX 808 . TELEX 34-6407 AEC LRL LYMR
LIVERMORE, CALIFORNIA 94550 TWX 910-386-8339 AEC LRL LVMR

May 20, 1971

Dr. Joshua Lederberg

Department of Genetics

Stanford University Medical School
Stanford, California 94305

Dear Dr. Lederberg:

The midyear topical symposium of the Health Physics Society is to
be held at Richland, Washington, November 2 - 5, This year's topic is
entitled "Radiation Protection Standards: Quo Vadis?". As part of the
symposium, I have been requested to help arrange a session on "Benefit-
Risk Considerations in Standards Setting". This session is tentatively
scheduled for November 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

We would greatly appreciate your presenting a paper at this session.
As a guide for keeping the presentation in line with the theme of the
session, I suggest the subject matter be selected from among the fol-
lowing categories:

1. Discussion of the intent of provision in the present standards
(FRC, ICRP, and/or NCRP) where benefit-risk balance is implied.
What calculus is suggested for determination of whether low
dose exposures are justified by given degrees of benefit? How
does one define "practicable" as in the statement "Doses should
be kept as low as practicable"?

2. Discussion of the viewpoint that present standards or portions
thereof are too dangerous, and not justified on the basis of
probable benefit.
3. Proposals and discussion of definitive benefit-risk analysis
in setting radiation standards and/or guidelines.

I am enclosing a guide and forms for abstracts. Abstracts for this
session will be due by June 15. Unfortunately, the symposium has no
funds to cover speakers' expenses.

I believe your participation would prove to be a rewarding experience
for yourself as well as a great asset for the symposium. I would be
happy to provide any further information I can. Please let me know if
I can be of any assistance.

Sincerely yours,

pa) Ct

Jerry J. Cohen

JJCstd
Enc.