Response to 'Further information about the latest study of UK nuclear test veterans' by Susie Boniface

Abstract: We thank Susie Boniface for her interest in our editorial. Her letter is wide-ranging. We largely limit our response to matters relating to mortality and incidence of cancer in the epidemiological studies of UK nuclear test veterans. Epidemiology deals only with effects on groups and we cannot comment on any individual cases. Nor do we comment on groups other than those included in this study; some of these other groups have been specifically discussed by Gillies and Haylock (2022). Equally, we do not express any views on criteria for awarding disability pensions. However, we respond to the other points in her letter. Ms Boniface suggests that our conclusion ‘further research is required’ is not very satisfactory. We agree. However, we have a situation where there are suggestive hints of excess disease in veterans compared to controls. In the editorial we discuss possible reasons for this without finding a convincing candidate. More data might clarify the situation.