Role of the radiologist in atomic attack.

Abstract

In view of great advances made in new weapons of war, the position of the radiologist is rapidly becoming more important. Because of his general medical training, supplemented by his knowledge of radioactive materials and of their inherent dangers, he will be of invaluable aid to both the military and civilian population. For some time one of us (S.L.W.) has been advocating the necessity of a well organized radiological defense program for California. Shortly after the initial attack in Korea, Governor Earl Warren of this state took an active part in mobilizing civilian personnel into a well organized civil defense organization. In the beginning, radiological defense was placed under medical control, as a part of the medical plan. It was soon realized, however, that an effective radiological defense program would of necessity have to be large in personnel, that it would require specialized training plans and equipment, and would best function as a separate entity apart from medical activities. In an actua...