Perchlorate Study

Re “Volunteers Ingest Pollutant in Drinking Water Study,” Nov. 27 and your Nov. 28 editorial: In 1997 scientists detected perchlorate in water at levels 100 times lower than previously possible. Perchlorates are a component in some rocket fuels but also a substance approved by the FDA to treat hyperthyroidism. Lockheed Martin, as a result of past manufacturing operations, is a potential contributor to perchlorate found in ground water in one area.

The U.S. EPA developed a rational plan to address this new problem. The first phase, data collection, includes clinical (human) studies. One is being conducted by Boston University, working through Loma Linda University. Lockheed Martin is funding this work through a trust and cannot interfere with, impede or halt the research and cannot prevent the publication of results, even if unfavorable.

The perchlorate dose being used is 100 times lower than prescription doses. Volunteers are closely monitored and are removed from the study if they experience any adverse effects.

JAMES H. O’BRIEN

Vice President, Corporate Energy,

Environment, Safety & Health

Lockheed Martin Corp.

Littleton, Colo.