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The regulation and control of radiation use based on scientific
evidence is essential for the safe and reliable use of radiation. The Research
Center for Radiation Protection first investigates how much radiation exposure
occurs from environmental radiation, radioactive substances, and the use of
radiation in medicine and other industries.The Research Center quantitatively
assesses the effects of radiation on humans and the environment, and clarifies
the mechanisms underlying these effects. The Research Center disseminates its
research results to promote public understanding of radiation effects and to
encourage the enactment of more reasonable regulations concerning the use of
radiation. The scope of its activity is not limited to Japan. It has been appointed
a collaborating centre by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Collaborations
with the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation,
the International Commission on Radiological Protection, the World Health
Organization, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
have been carried
out to determine the effects of radiation for the establishment of more rational
regulations for the use of radiation.
Toward the determination of the effects of radiation and
promoting more reasonable regulatory regimes
There are increasing opportunities for humans to come into
contact with radiation in medical care and in various fields of industry. Opportunities
for humans to be exposed to naturally existing radiation through air and space
travel have increased in recent years. Under these circumstances, we need more
precise information on the effects of radiation on humans and on the environment.
The Research Center for Radiation Protection investigates
how radiation exists in nature and how radioactive substances behave in the
environment, and determines
the quantitative relationship between radiation doses and their effects.
It is known that organisms may have sophisticated responses
to low levels of radiation. Understanding these responses is intriguing as
fundamental
research
and is significant for the interpretation of the risks of low-dose radiation.
These research outcomes are published and disseminated
to enable their incorporation into radiation regulations and to communicate
the evidence
accurately to
those working in the field to promote the safety and reliability of radiation
and
radioactive substances.