250 



due to tumors increased by 42.4%, mortality from cancer by 78%. 



Altai. Over the last 40 years, illnesses due to tumors have 

 increased by 5 times, while oncological illnesses of the 

 respiratory organs increased by 50 times. Mortality due to 

 tumors increased by 7 times, while death of children increased by 

 18 times. 



Therefore, although analysis of the illness and mortality 

 statistics indicate an unfavorable ecological situation, we 

 cannot conclude that radiation is the leading cause for the 

 increases in tumors. There are other possible causes: water and 

 air pollution, changes in diet, spread of viruses or bacteria in 

 the environment, etc. 



Combined, multidisciplinary research of all aspects of the 

 problem is required, including the effects of the radiation 

 situation in Siberia on health of the population. It would be 

 best of all to do the research within the context of the Alaska- 

 Siberian Scientific Medical Program, which already exists. 



With the collapse of the Soviet Union, a rapid development of 

 industry and mineral resources is occurring. This must be done 

 with consideration of the up-to-date achievements of science, new 

 technologies and the gradual restoration of the natural 

 environment in the north. The unfavorable ecological situation 

 in the north will remain for a long time, it may be irreversible 

 and quickly spread to northern countries. Urgent ecological, 

 sanitary-hygenic and demographic mapping of the Siberian regions 

 is required, including renewed monitoring. 



Studies need to be initiated of the ranges of fish and animals in 

 Siberia, along with the utilization of the fish and animals from 

 ecologically unfavorable regions in the diets of the populations, 

 a practice which could lead to illnesses. The placement of newly 

 developing industries must be made with due consideration of the 

 ecological conditions, including radiation in the soil, water, 

 and plants. Of special concern is the interment of the waste 

 from nuclear industry. 



Work in Russia is moving in the above directions. However, to 

 accelerate and expand the work, so that the spread of 

 ecologically unfavorable conditions does not continue, the 

 efforts and resources of all northern nations need to be 

 combined. 



