Jul 29, 2009 - University Researches Mesothelioma in Iron Range Workers
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are seeking 1200 taconite workers and their spouses to participate in a study to try to uncover the causes of the exceptionally high rate of mesothelioma deaths among those employed at the Iron Range. Letters have been sent out to thousands of current and former workers asking for their participation in a screening program, regardless of their health status.
Mesothelioma is primarily associated with exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral similar to taconite. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) launched an original study of taconite workers in 2003. They concluded that the most likely cause of mesothelioma was due to exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in many industrial and commercial products. Asbestos is now known to be carcinogenic, and exposure causes serious illnesses, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. The MDH 2003 study believed that employees’ exposure to asbestos occurred occupationally by working around and with products such as boilers, furnaces, and pipes insulated with asbestos containing materials.
Since that original study, the rate of diagnosis of mesothelioma in the area has been twice what is to be expected, and new research into the cause is being called for. One possibility to be explored is whether taconite could be toxic in ways similar to asbestos. Taconite is an iron-bearing, flint like rock found in the Mesabi Iron Range, located in the northeastern section of Minnesota.
Due to the high rate of mesothelioma cases among those living in the Iron Range area, the University and MDH is asking for participants to undergo exams and to complete health questionnaires, breathing tests, X-rays, and blood work. The 4.9 million cancer study funded by the Legislature last year will take up to five years. In addition to health assessments, researchers plan to examine the work, health, and death records of current and deceased employees to try to establish a cause.
Participation is crucial, and may help save the lives of current employees.
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