1 Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida
Several generations of children have lived in the shadow of the threat of a nuclear holocaust. The significance of this cloud to children now and for the future is only beginning to be explored. Pediatricians, of all physicians, are most directly involved in the care and welfare of children and traditionally have been leaders in preventive medicine. As professionals, we are as confused as other citizens of the world about how to find methods for reducing the likelihood of annihilation while preserving personal and national freedom.
The threat of nuclear destruction and the stress of the arms race will only be permanently reduced through political change.