Abstract
The new UNSCEAR report to be published in 2007 is composed of the main text and five annexes. In Annex E of "Sources-to-effects assessment for radon in workplaces and homes," the latest scientific findings on radon, the most dominant natural source to the public were reviewed and summarized. Findings from case-control studies of residential radon and lung cancer as well as those from cohort studies of underground miners were extensively reviewed in terms of health effects of radon.
Other annexes on "Medical radiation exposures", "Exposures of the public and workers from various sources of radiation", "Exposures from radiation accidents", "Effects of ionizing radiation on non-human biota", and "Health effects due to radiation from the Chernobyl accident", as well as one summary annex on "Sources of radiation and effects of exposure" are under preparation. The UNSCEAR has carried out a global survey to the member states to collect relevant data on radiation sources. The results of the survey are being analyzed and summarized in the annexes. In addition, the annexes on radiation effects on non-human biota and of Chernobyl accidents are deliberately being prepared. These annexes are expected to be completed in 2008 or later.
UNSCEAR reports could not appear without great contributions of the delegations (representatives and their advisors) of the UNSCEAR member states, the secretary of the UNSCEAR, and consultants. In Japan, systematic activity is in effect for reviewing the drafts of the UNSCEAR report, and for collecting and summarizing data on radiation sources. The expert panel of UNSCEAR, consisting of more than 100 experts is responsible for the activity.
