More Mesothelioma Cases Found Among Minnesota Taconite Workers
Deaths from mesothelioma continue to mount against former workers of the Minnesota Iron Range Taconite mine. According to the latest report issued to the Minnesota legislature, 14 more deaths were identified bringing the total number of deaths associated to the site to 82.
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after exposure, complicating this study since many of the workers are not yet experiencing symptoms. Although there is no known cure for mesothelioma, it can be treated with varying degrees of success through the use of surgical procedures, chemotherapy and radiation.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are conducting the Taconite Workers Health Study, a $4.9 million study funded by the state of Minnesota, to determine the cause of the excess number of cases of mesothelioma among the taconite workers.
The study was undertaken after 52 miners were found to have contracted “asbestos cancer” even though there are no known asbestos deposits in the mine. A study conducted earlier this year by University of Hawaii researchers found that erionite may also cause mesothelioma. Prior to that study, asbestos was the only known cause of the incurable cancer.
Researchers report they found the additional cancer cases by checking death records in other states for former Iron Range residents who moved out of Minnesota.
For further information about the study see the University of Minnesota website.
