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In several recent editorials, KSL expressed concern about Utah becoming a dumping ground for radioactive waste and the dangers of shipping the stuff across the nation and through the state. Blaine N. Howard, a retired Health Physicist who lives in Hyrum and has spent a lifetime studying issues of health and radiation, wrote to say: “The citizens of Utah have a right to know that there is a different and valid point of view.
There are 2 facts which should change the current view point. 1. That the amount of radiation which could be received by the most highly exposed individual is most likely to be too small to cause any health effect. 2. That any effect is more likely to be beneficial than it is to be harmful. Several studies have shown that workers exposed to significant amounts of radiation have significantly less cancer and live longer.
It is not right for the citizens of Utah to believe that they will be harmed by the small amounts of radiation which they may receive from any radioactive materials coming into the state. The only effect they can expect is less cancer and longer life. Please don't worry.”
KSL appreciates the perspective provided by Mr. Howard. And we encourage you to read the complete text of his reply.
