RAY TREATMENT OF CANCER

Press, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 27010, 9 April 1953, Page 8

RAY TREATMENT OF CANCER

Fundamental Research On Effects TRANSFER TO DUNEDIN FROM CHRISTCHURCH (New Zealand Press Association) DUNEDIN, April 8. Fundamental research on radiations such as X-rays and radium emanations which are used in cancer treatment will begin soon in Dunedin. Dr. J. Read has for the last two years been working on this research in Christchurch for the British Empire Cancer Campaign Society, but he has transferred his activities recently to the Otago Medical School, where better facilities exist. Working in conjunction with Dr. Read is Dr. H. C. Sutton, who has just completed post-graduate studies overseas. The work will be done in the Hugh Adam Department of Cancer Research, in co-operation with the New Zealand branch of the British Empire Cancer Campaign Society. This department is directed by Dr. F. Bielschowsky.

Dr. Read explained that his work formed only a narrow and specialised branch of cancer research. Little was known of the fundamental mechanism of the action of radiations on living organisms. The knowledge avilable had been gained by practical experience. “My research is to find out what happens to a cell when the radiation damages it,” Dr. Read said. “If this was fully known, it might be possible to make improvements in the radiation treatment of cancer. None of this work will involve patients. It will be done on simple biological and chemical material.” Dr. Read gained a bachelor of science degree of London University externally from Nottingham University College, and a doctorate of philosophy at the Canadian Institute of Technology, where he did three years’ research work. Dr. Sutton gained a master of science degree at Canterbury University College, and a doctorate of philosophy at the University of Durham,