Committee on Medical Aspects of Radiation in the Environment

Committee on Medical Aspects of Radiation in the Environment (COMARE) is a UK expert advisory committee that has been established to assess and advise the government and relevant authorities on the health effects of natural and man-made radiation in the environment. COMARE plays a crucial role in understanding the risks associated with radiation exposure and in formulating guidelines to protect public health.

Overview

COMARE was established in the early 1980s in response to growing concerns about the potential health effects of radiation, particularly after the identification of an excess of childhood leukemia cases near the Sellafield nuclear reprocessing plant. The committee is composed of experts in fields such as epidemiology, radiobiology, radiation physics, and public health, ensuring a comprehensive approach to assessing radiation risks.

Objectives

The primary objectives of COMARE include:

• To review and assess current research on the health effects of natural and man-made radiation.
• To evaluate the adequacy of current radiation protection standards and practices.
• To advise on specific incidents or issues where radiation may impact human health.
• To communicate its findings and recommendations to the government, relevant authorities, and the public.

Key Findings and Recommendations

Over the years, COMARE has published numerous reports addressing various aspects of radiation in the environment. Some of its key findings and recommendations have included:

• The need for improved monitoring and assessment of radiation doses to the public, especially in areas near nuclear facilities.
• The importance of considering the cumulative effects of low-dose radiation exposure over time.
• Recommendations for reducing unnecessary exposure to medical radiation, such as through the judicious use of X-rays and CT scans.
• Guidance on minimizing exposure to radon gas, a natural source of radiation linked to lung cancer.

Impact

COMARE's work has significantly influenced policies and practices related to radiation protection in the UK. Its recommendations have led to stricter regulations on radioactive discharges from nuclear sites, enhanced monitoring of radiation in the environment, and greater awareness of radiation risks among healthcare professionals and the public.

Criticism and Challenges

Despite its contributions, COMARE has faced criticism, particularly from environmental and anti-nuclear groups. Critics argue that the committee may understate the risks associated with low-dose radiation exposure and that it is too closely aligned with the nuclear industry. COMARE maintains that its assessments are based on scientific evidence and that it operates independently of industry and government interests.

See Also

• Radiation protection
• Epidemiology of cancer
• Nuclear safety
• Environmental health

External Links

• [Official COMARE Website](https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/committee-on-medical-aspects-of-radiation-in-the-environment-comare)