Dioxin research meeting tonight

University of Michigan scientists studying dioxin exposure in the Midland-Saginaw area will meet Thursday with community representatives to discuss the study. The meeting, open to the public, begins at 6 p.m. at the Freeland Elementary School Cafeteria, 710 Powley Drive, Freeland.

Dr. David Garabrant, who heads the U-M scientific team, is expected to tell the study's 12-member Community Advisory Panel that the study has been proceeding well since it began Sept. 30.

An estimated 1,100 Michigan residents are being contacted to take part in the study. Results are to be published in late 2006. The purpose of the study is to see whether dioxins in the environment are ending up in the bodies of residents of the Tittabawassee River area and whether these residents have higher levels of dioxins in their blood than persons living in other parts of Michigan.

The role of the Community Advisory Panel is to make sure the U-M team of scientists is aware of the concerns of the public and answers their questions about the study.