Modelers must consider both of these in determining the shape of the dose-response relationships. The task of the DOE modelers is not to model the whole cancer process but to model radiation-induced cancer and to determine the differences and similarities. Jeff Schwartz led a brief discussion on the value of developing markers of radiation-induced cancer. It would be very valuable if radiation-induced cancers could be identified. This has not been possible for radiation, but there has been some success for several chemicals that attack the genome at defined sites.
Genomic instability is a major factor during the development of cancer in general.
The role of radiation at low doses and low dose-rates on the induction of genomic instability is still being investigated. In general, it was agreed that genomic instability may be a major factor during radiation-induced cancer. At low doses, these may be the only individuals that develop cancer. As the dose increases, this population is folded into the greater more resistant population and has little impact on the risk. It is important to link molecular techniques that identify sensitive human sub-populations to epidemiology studies to determine if having a marker of sensitivity places the individuals at higher risk.