Initiatives of Low-Dose Research Co-ordination: Summary Report of a Joint Workshop Organised by the Nuclear Energy Agency in Co-operation with the Electric Power Research Institute

This joint workshop on low-dose research co-ordination was co-organised by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) High-Level Group on Low-Dose Research (HLG-LDR) and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) with its International Dose Effect Alliance (IDEA) network. The event was the culmination of ongoing collaboration between both organisations, fostered through a series of workshops and webinars focused on low-dose research.

The HLG-LDR aims to enhance radiological protection policy, regulation and implementation by improving the effectiveness and efficiency of research through global co-ordination of current and future low-dose research projects.

The health effects of low-dose radiation and their biological mechanisms in humans and non-human species are not yet fully understood. While cancer remains the most studied disease linked to ionising radiation, there is increasing evidence that low-dose (rate) radiation exposure may also be associated with non-cancer health outcomes, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, immune dysfunction and cataracts. Questions also persist on potential transgenerational effects.

Advancements in research methods and technology have made it possible to expand the understanding of these radiation-related health effects. This progress underscores the importance and feasibility of improving our comprehension of the health risks associated with low-dose radiation exposure. The workshop convened 140 experts from 29 countries to discuss and share knowledge in the field of low-dose research with the following objectives:

• To share the latest research findings on low-dose radiation health outcomes and biological mechanisms in humans and non-human species, as well as new research methods and approaches.
• To identify and develop mechanisms for expediting outreach to the radiological protection community, highlighting the importance of co-ordination in low-dose research.
• To strengthen the development of educational and training resources for the next generation of researchers and radiological protection professionals.
• To create initiatives that bring together researchers and regulators, thereby amplifying the impact of key research findings and facilitating the transition of scientific research results into real-world applications.

This summary report captures the key findings and discussions of the workshop, with the objective of providing a valuable resource for the radiological protection community. It underscores the need for reinforced collaboration and co-ordination in low-dose research. By fostering knowledge sharing, this report aims to enhance understanding of the status of low-dose radiation health effects research and potential ways forward, serving as a meaningful tool to drive future research, bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical/regulatory application, and support informed policy and regulatory decisions in radiological protection.

The summaries of the sessions in the different chapters are based on abstracts submitted by the speakers before the workshop as well as summaries of their presentations given in the room. The statements made are summaries of the presentations made by the experts and do not represent the official position of the Electric Power Research Institute or the Nuclear Energy Agency.

This report was approved by the Committee on Radiological Protection and Public Health (CRPPH) on 4 April 2025.