Document DvVEErrBDMBOQjMpmYkMm3BYQ

Translation of letter from Ur. Hoschek I thank you for your informative letter of August 23, which caused me some embarrassment, so that, in order to make sure, I reviewed again the literature available to me from 1940 to 1967 and 1969. This is in part summarized in the various numbers of the "Publica tions of the German Metal Works and Mines" (Clausthal-Ze11erfeld - volumes 1, 5, 8, and 20) In these, data appear on the low lead values in blood in lead poisoning (Tillmann, Briine, Minden and Opitz) and on the relatively high "physiologic" values in urban residents {69 ug) (Jecklin). The problem of the most suitable type of medical surveillance of lead-exposed workers has been discussed in recent years in special symposia. Reports on these axa published in No. 3 and 7 of the above-mentioned publications, as well as in the monograph by *- ' Buckup "Lead," which contains papers and discussions presented at the symposium in Hannover, 1966. I am sending this book to you at this time, since I do not know whether you have already received it from some other source. as a supplementary method In the meantime, the determination of ALA in the urine/has. found an increasing number of supporters. It has not yet been considered in the book- Finally, I do not wish to neglect calling your attention to the noteworthy discussion by L. Teleky (New York) who, in his book "Industrial Poisons" (Springer Verlag, Heidelberg, 1955) explained the bases for the differing development of interpretations in the USA and in Europe. By considering these bases you will understand that I do not defend - a personal, "heretic" interpretation which differs from the opinion of most of the other industrial physicians of Europe. The most important requirement of surveillance in exposure to lead appears to me ti examination^at the shortest possible intervals, because much can happen in the meantime. For these routine examinations several screening tests are already available. reaching, through an A problem for the near future could be that of findingx'sK optimal combination of suitable methods, a compromise between the requirements of exact science and the needs of the practice, which could be recommended with good conscience in the form of I \ a schema to such physicians who do not yet possess sufficient personal experience in this field, but who for local reasons are entrusted with the surveillance of lead industries. I would be most pleased to have some opportunity of a personal discussion with you, since it is so difficult to reach an understanding by correspondence. I am sending a copy of this letter to you in Tokyo, since I assume that you will be there. Perhaps your return may take you through Europe (Milan?).