LNT and cancer risk assessment: Its flawed foundations part 1: Radiation and leukemia: Where LNT began

This paper evaluates the scientific basis for adoption of linear non-threshold (LNT) dose response model radiation-induced leukemia. LNT risk assessment application leukemia is significant because it: (1) was generalized all tumor types induced by ionizing radiation and chemical carcinogens at relatively high doses and; (2) it based on mechanistic assumption low linearity somatic cell mutations as determined from responses in mature spermatozoa fruit flies. A serious problem with latter that those lack DNA repair. The acceptance cancer convergence recommendations BEAR I Genetics Panel (1956a) reproductive gene Lewis (1957a) mutation its capacity to explain apparent and/or predicted multiple diverse epidemiological investigations. Use related beliefs achieved rapid, widespread enduring regulatory communities. They provide key historical foundation sustained LNT-based policy present. While previous papers this series have challenged assessments ethical foundations Panel, present provides evidence Lewis: 1) incorrectly interpreted fundamental studies used support conclusion even though such show consistent hormetic-J-shaped relationships Hiroshima Nagasaki survivors; and, 2) demonstrated bias an policies, which kept him making objective fair assessment. recommendation appears been uncritically accepted integrated into practice large part inappropriately appealed existing authority garnered who were willing greatly exaggerating public's fears environmentally-induced disease, enhanced leukemia, goal stopping atmospheric testing atomic bombs. Adoption extensive penetration ideological influence affecting governmental, evaluation highest levels United States. demonstrates inaccurately assessed, unethically adopted require historical, remediation.