The Cog Strategic Research and Development Low Dose Radiation Research Program

Abstract

The COG Strategic Research and Development (SRD) Low Dose Radiation (LDR) research program (Addressing Public Concerns about Their Exposure to Low Doses of Anthropogenic Radiation) will undertake independent and evidence-based research in response to concerns and worries about the effects of exposure to anthropogenic radiation expressed by the public in Canada. It will investigate low-dose radiation (LDR) and advise the public of findings. It is intended that the work will reduce concerns by providing accurate and unbiased information on the consequences of exposures to LDR. Projects undertaken within the program address the following questions: What are the public concerns regarding exposures to low dose anthropogenic radiation; To what extent are the public concerns justified by evidence of adverse effects; Why are effects seen / not seen following LDR; How best are the results of studies communicated to the public; How effective have the communications been in reducing concerns? The LDR program is forecast to cost > 1 M$/year over several years. The program started January 2018 with 2 funded kick-off projects and another 6 commenced in April 2018. Two further projects are planned to start in 2019.