Hamilton, Ontario (Canada)
25, 26, 27 & 28 June 2005

Presentation

Scientific Committee

Main Topics Programme

PRESENTATION The aim of this conference is to present and discuss the latest research results concerning the health effects of exposure of humans and other living organisms to low and very low doses of ionizing radiation. The conference aims to present state-of-the-art scientific research from leading experts in the field and to make the findings accessible to specialists and non-specialists who work with or are otherwise concerned about low dose exposures. Main speakers from academic institutions will present basic scientific results and will be joined by regulators, clinicians and health physicists, whose job it is to interpret the basic science and formulate and implement protection policy for individuals exposed during their work, in their environment or as a result of medical treatments. There is an open call for submitted papers and posters and young scientists and interested non-specialists are especially encouraged to present posters or short talks to the conference. Accurate knowledge about low level radiation exposures is of major importance for the future of medical imaging and environmental radiation protection. It also contributes to the debate about future world energy options. Two pitfalls must be avoided: fuelling unjustified anxiety on doubtful bases or underestimating the risks associated with exposure to ionizing radiation. Only independent and careful research can lead to answers. Only effective communication of this research to stakeholders can make a practical difference. McMaster University and the Medical Physics area in particular, has a deep interest in radiobiology and radiation protection and in the assessment of the hazards associated with the biological effects of low and very low doses of ionizing radiation because nuclear workers, radiologists and radiation technologists in hospitals, form a large part of the catchment for McMaster graduates in Medical Physics. Therefore, we are very much concerned by the controversies which have arisen over the past few years with regard to the dose limit and the LNT assessment of the risks associated with exposure to low and very low doses of radiation.