Low Dose Radiation Effects: A Biological Reality Check.
Dr Ron Mitchel, Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, Chalk River, Ontario Canada

2.15 pm - 3.15pm
Thursday, 4th March
EPA training Room, Level 8
SA Water Building, Victoria Square
RSVP: Tony Hooker,  tony.hooker@epa.sa.gov.au

The Linear No-Threshold (LNT) hypothesis is the basic assumption underlying the principles and practices of the radiation protection system used for both humans and the environment. The hypothesis assumes that every dose, no matter how low, increases risk. This talk will compare the assumptions and risk predictions of the LNT hypothesis and the radiation protection system with the actual biological outcomes of low dose exposures. A variety of risk end-points generally associated with a radiation exposure will be examined. The evidence will show that the assumptions and predictions of the LNT hypothesis and the radiation protection system are inconsistent with the data at low doses. Low doses of radiation induce adaptive responses that can reduce, rather than increase risk. These protective effects have both upper and lower dose thresholds, and are influenced by both genetics and the total stress on the organism. A new approach to radiation protection at low doses is required. 

Short Biography

Ron Mitchel received his PhD degree in Biochemistry from the University of  British Columbia and subsequently worked at the University of California in Los Angeles. He joined the Radiation Biology & Health Physics Branch of AECL and has over 35 years research experience in the biological effects of low doses of radiation. He retired as Senior Scientist in 2006. In 2003 he received the W. B. Lewis Medal, the highest honour jointly awarded by the Canadian Nuclear Society and the Canadian Nuclear Association. Today he holds the position of Researcher Emeritus at AECL and acts as a scientific consultant. Ron was an adjunct professor at two Universities, Associate Editor of two scientific journals, and is the author of ~100 peer reviewed scientific publications. He has been an invited member of Expert Panels for the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency and The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and has been an invited speaker at numerous International Conferences. He is currently researching the effects of low dose radiation on heart disease as part of a European Union Consortium.