-November 7, 2007
It was recently reported that at least two studies are in the works regarding the health impacts of mesothelioma across Northeastern Minnesota.
These studies will focus on miners and their exposure to asbestos as well as try to better pinpoint the negative health complications that are associated with asbestos.
Agencies Pursue Study
The Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has declined to take part in what is known as the Cleveland-Cliffs study.
This study focuses on former and current workers at the Silver Bay taconite facility.
According to records, 58 miners have been diagnosed with mesothelioma in the past decade, but it hasn’t been determined whether the disease is solely caused by asbestos exposure or if the taconite could also have contributed as well.
Cleveland-Cliffs Study
The Cleveland-Cliffs study is meant to narrow its focus to the incidence of mesothelioma cases at its facility since its opening in 1952.
David Byrne, the spokesman for the study, says that they plan to proceed with the study and that the company intends to share the results with the state.
One of the main questions to be answered in the study is whether or not there are specific risks relating with the dust that the ore body caused, which was found at the Peter Mitchell Mine in Babbitt.
(Source: Lake County News-Chronicle)
Do you want to learn more about mesothelioma and the studies that have been conducted involving the illness? Contact us today so you can learn more about this life threatening illness and find out how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from being exposed to asbestos.