The U.S. Uranium Registry tissue program

The U.S. Uranium Registry tissue program was established in December 1980. It is patterned after the U.S. Transuranium Registry program. Both are funded by DOE. The objectives of the program are to: (1) detect the presence and distribution of uranium, if any, in human tissue in occupationally exposed workers, (2) compare bioassay and in vivo measurements for exposed individuals with the results of analysis of tissue obtained at autopsy, (3) seek evidence of histopathological changes related to any uranium deposition found, (4) conduct analyses of whole bodies, when available, to obtain more precise data on the uranium burdens, if any, in the body and organs, and especially the distribution in parts of the body, such as most of the skeleton, that are not usually accessible for sampling. The program will include (1) participants who have been permissibly exposed, (2) participants who were exposed at a time when current limits did not exist and (3) reference individuals without exposure. The program will develop data that will assist in evaluating (1) the accuracy of current in vivo measurement techniques, (2) the propriety of existing regulations and (3) the adequacy of current protection programs. Enrollment in the program is voluntary.