The Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF) is currently planning a genetic study to elucidate the potential health effects from parental radiation exposure in the children of A-bomb survivors.

As part of the study, RERF has signed an Agreement on Collaborative Research with Hiroshima University Hospital to establish a system enabling appropriate genetic counseling and medical support to study participants and family members who wish to be notified of genetic testing results that could potentially inform their health management.

The signing ceremony was held on Thursday, April 24, at Hiroshima University’s Kasumi Campus. In attendance from Hiroshima University Hospital were Director Dr. Nobuo Adachi and Chief of the Department of Genetic Medicine Dr. Takao Hinoi. Participating from RERF were Chair Dr. Kenji Kamiya, Vice Chair and Executive Director Dr. Preetha Rajaraman, and Assistant Chief of the Department of Molecular Biosciences Dr. Arikuni Uchimura. The event was also covered by members of the media.

Under the agreement, RERF will continue to add to its scientific findings that contribute to the health of A-bomb survivors and their children (the second generation of survivors) as the organization carefully prepares to conduct the study based on the support and understanding of the public.