Quoted By:
1944 A Manhattan Project memorandum of 29 April 1944 states: “Clinical evidence suggests that uranium hexafluoride may have a rather marked central nervous system effect… It seems most likely that the F component rather than the T [code for uranium] is the causative factor.” The memo, from a captain in the medical corps, is stamped SECRET and is addressed to Colonel Stafford Warren, head of the Manhattan Project’s Medical Section. Colonel Warren is asked to approve a program of animal research on CNS effects. “Since work with these compounds is essential, it will be necessary to know in advance what mental effects may occur after exposure… This is important not only to protect a given individual, but also to prevent a confused workman from injuring others by improperly performing his duties. The author of the 1944 CNS research proposal attached to the 29 April memo was Dr Harold C. Hodge-at the time, chief of fluoride toxicology studies for the University of Rochester division of the Manhattan Project.